What is Haemochromatosis?
Haemochromatosis is a hereditary condition, in which excessive amounts of iron are absorbed from the diet. This iron is deposited in various organs, mainly in the parenchymal cells of the liver and also in the pancreas, heart, anterior pituitary and joints. Early diagnosis is vital as without treatment Haemochromatosis can cause premature death. Haemochromatosis results […]
Other Associations and Societies
Haemochromatosis International Haemochromatosis International is a global alliance of haemochromatosis associations, established to advance the health of people with haemochromatosis across Europe, North America, Australia, New Zealand, South African and South America. Haemochromatosis UK Haemochromatosis UK supports people in England, Scotland, Wales and Northern Ireland who live with genetic haemochromatosis. www.irishliverfoundation.ie The Irish Liver […]
What is the Treatment for Haemochromatosis?
Begin treatment as soon as possible; the earlier your treatment (the most effective treatment is by venesection) begins the better your chances of staying healthy. Follow your doctors treatment plan and make sure to get therapeutic phlebotomies when you need them. Ask your doctor about the best way for you to get your results, so […]
What are the symptoms of Haemochromatosis?
Iron builds up slowly so symptoms may not appear until age 30 or 40. These symptoms include: The early biochemical signs of haemochromatosis tend to be: Most of these symptoms can be found in other disorders but when arthritis affects the first two finger joints, it is highly suggestive of haemochromatosis. Most individuals with haemochromatosis will develop […]
What are the Tests for Haemochromatosis?
Diagnosis A simple blood test to check your iron status can confirm or rule out iron overload. If both the serum ferritin (SF) and the transferrin saturation (TS) levels are raised, then a genetic test is carried out to confirm the diagnosis. Serum Ferritin SF reflects body iron stores; an SF of >200ug/L in premenopausal […]
Who should be Tested for Haemochromatosis?
Consider testing for haemochromatosis (HH) in: Relatives who are at risk should be tested. This is absolutely essential in the case of brothers and sisters (siblings) as they stand at least a 1 in 4 chance of being affected. Early detection and treatment will prevent all the complications of the disease. As haemochromatosis is an […]
How is Haemochromatosis inherited?
Inherited disorders are caused by defective genes in the cells of the body. Genes, which are made up of DNA, contain the information, the body needs to develop from the egg, and to maintain itself in good working order. Human beings have about 60,000 genes, and every cell in the body except the egg and sperm […]
What is Haemochromatosis?
Haemochromatosis is a hereditary condition, in which excessive amounts of iron are absorbed from the diet. This iron is deposited in various organs, mainly in the parenchymal cells of the liver and also in the pancreas, heart, anterior pituitary and joints. Early diagnosis is vital as without treatment Haemochromatosis can cause premature death. Haemochromatosis results […]