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Hemochromatosis

Learn more about symptoms, risk factors and treatment options.

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What is it?

Hemochromatosis is a common, inherited liver disease. Secondary hemochromatosis is caused by anemia, alcoholism and other disorders. 

Hemochromatosis causes the body to absorb and store too much iron. The extra iron builds up in the body’s organs and damages them. If untreated, the disease can cause the liver, heart and pancreas to fail.

Symptoms

Symptoms of hemochromatosis include:

  • Fatigue 
  • Impotence 
  • Joint pain 
  • Skin discoloration (hyperpigmentation) 
  • Weakness

When to see a doctor

If you have symptoms consistent with hemochromatosis, it’s time to see a doctor. You can develop serious complications if hemochromatosis is left untreated. 

Causes and risk factors

Hemochromatosis is caused by an increase in iron in the body or iron overload. This is typically due to a gene called HFE. HFE impacts your body’s ability to absorb iron from the food you eat.

Treatment options

Treatment for hemochromatosis may include phlebotomy. This will help reduce iron in the body by removing blood cells rich in iron.

Testing

Your doctor can help you determine if you have hemochromatosis. They may recommend the following tests or procedures:

  • Blood tests
  • Imaging tests (ultrasound, x-ray, CT scan, MRI scan)
  • Liver biopsy

 

Prevention

Hemochromatosis cannot be prevented. If the condition is diagnosed and treated before organs are damaged, other conditions — such as liver disease, heart disease, arthritis and diabetes — can be prevented.

 

Additional conditions

Hepatitis A

Pancreatic Cancer

Hepatitis C