Hemochromatosis is a type of iron overload disease that's caused by a gene change passed down in families. Iron overload disease is any condition that causes the body to hold onto too much iron. Iron overload diseases include the following: Hemochromatosis, also called primary or hereditary hemochromatosis, is the most common iron overload disease.
It is a genetic condition that triggers the ... Diagnosis Diagnosis and tests Hemochromatosis and iron overload can be difficult to diagnose. Early symptoms such as stiff joints and fatigue are commonly caused by other conditions. Many people with the disease don't have any symptoms other than high levels of iron in their blood.
hemochromatosis skin, Hemochromatosis may be identified because of irregular blood test results after testing is done for other reasons. Neonatal hemochromatosis is a serious disease where iron builds up quickly in the liver of a baby while in the womb. It is thought to be an autoimmune disease, in which the body attacks itself. Secondary iron overload can be caused by another condition that causes the intestines to absorb too much iron, such as liver disease, or by too much ... If hemochromatosis is caught and treated early, before it causes serious damage, you often can live a full life.
hemochromatosis skin, But if left untreated — especially if it leads to advanced stages of liver scarring, called cirrhosis, or heart conditions — life can be significantly shorter. The Hereditary Hemochromatosis Clinic at Mayo Clinic's campus in Florida provides screening, genetic testing and treatment. Overview The Hereditary Hemochromatosis Clinic located on Mayo Clinic's campus in Florida provides state-of-the-art diagnostics, treatments and education to patients who have hereditary hemochromatosis or who are at risk of developing it. Organ damage Hemochromatosis is often diagnosed based on blood tests that show high ferritin levels or a gene mutation. Because of this, treatment begins early and can prevent organ damage. When diagnosed later or without treatment, organ damage can happen.
The liver is usually the first organ to be damaged. Too much iron can cause serious scarring of the liver, a condition called cirrhosis. A ... Research Mayo Clinic researchers are committed to improving diagnosis and treatment of hemochromatosis.
