Iron in small quantities is essential to life, particularly for the function of haemoglobin, the blood protein which carries oxygen to the tissues. Normally iron is taken into the body from food via the intestine. Haemochromatosis is a genetic (family inherited) disorder in which too much iron is taken into the body over and above the needs of the body. This iron slowly builds up in the liver, heart, pancreas and other hormonal glands and joints. It takes many years to build up iron to a level which causes damage to these organs, but by the time the damage occurs, it is often too late for the organ to repair itself and some permanent damage may remain.
Facts About Haemochromatosis
Second Edition 2003
Contents
- Introduction
- What is Haemochromatosis?
- What are the symptoms of
- Haemochromatosis?
- Who may be at risk of
- Haemochromatosis?
- How is the diagnosis made?
- Screening of relatives
- Is there a treatment?
- How effective is the treatment?
- What is the outcome?
- Are there support groups?
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