General Information About Hemochromatosis
Disease Details and Frequently Asked Questions
It is an iron overload disease that occurs as a result of a mutation in the genes (HFE gene) regulating the body's iron absorption, leading to the uncontrolled absorption and storage of dietary iron in the organs.
The disease progresses silently for many years. As iron accumulation increases, extreme fatigue, joint pain, abdominal pain, skin color turning to a bronze/grey hue, and a decrease in sexual desire (libido) are seen.
When excess iron deposits in the pancreas, it destroys insulin-producing cells, causing diabetes. Because it also causes skin pigmentation that darkens the skin, this clinical picture was named 'bronze diabetes'.
If left untreated, iron accumulation leads to permanent hardening of the liver (cirrhosis) and liver cancer. When it accumulates in the heart, it causes arrhythmias and heart failure, making it life-threatening.
It is suspected when the Ferritin level in the blood is found to be very high (usually over 1000) and Transferrin saturation is elevated. A definitive diagnosis is made through an HFE gene DNA mutation test and, if necessary, a liver biopsy.
The body has no mechanism to rid itself of extra iron. The most effective and natural treatment is a procedure called 'Phlebotomy'. Blood is regularly drawn from the patient, just like donating blood. To produce new blood cells, the body is forced to consume the excess iron stored in the organs, thus emptying the reserves.
Our health library contents are prepared for informational purposes only and with scientific data available at the time of recording. For all your questions, concerns, diagnosis, or treatment regarding your health, please consult your doctor or a healthcare institution.
