Hemochromatosis is a hereditary disorder in which the body absorbs too much iron which then accumulates in the liver, pancreas and heart as well as other glands. This overload causes the organ to eventually fail if left untreated.

The cause of hemochromatosis is as yet unclear. Siince the body has no way of ridding itself of the excess iron stores, treatment is through phlebotomy (removal of blood from the body). Initially, this is done several times a week until a mild anemia is established. When the patient finally becomes iron deficient, phlebotomies are done 4 to 5 times a year.

Interestingly, 41% of patients diagnosed with hemochromatosis are alcoholics. Alcohol actually increases the absorption of iron but alcoholism does not cause the disease.

Blood tests confirm the diagnosis. Once diagnosed, patients are advised to avoid alcohol if you have alcoholic cirrhosis, and reduce Vitamin C intake (because Vitamin C helps absorb iron).

Although born with the disease, it generally does not show up until mid-life although diagnosis has been made in children as young as 2 years of age. If a parent or sibling has the disease, make sure that you are checked for the disease since diagnosis can be established before symptoms begin. Left untreated however, iron-overload leads to complications and possible early death.

For more information follow this link from UptoDate about hemochromatosis.

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