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hemochromatosis

Hemochromatosis means that the body absorbs and stores too much iron, which can lead to organ damage. The result of this can be a feeling of fatigue and lack of energy, as the excess of iron can adversely affect the liver, heart and other vital organs.

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Ferritin

Iron deposit test

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Quick version

Hemochromatosis is a disease that causes the body to absorb and store too much iron from the diet. This leads to an excess of iron that can accumulate in various organs and tissues, especially the liver, heart and pancreas. The excess iron can damage these organs and lead to serious health problems if left untreated.

Causes of Hemochromatosis

The most common form of hemochromatosis is hereditary and is caused by mutations in the HFE gene. People with mutations in this gene, especially C282Y mutations, have an increased risk of developing the disease. There are also other, less common genetic forms of hemochromatosis as well as acquired forms that may be due to other medical conditions or excessive iron supplementation.

Symptoms of Hemochromatosis

The symptoms of hemochromatosis often develop gradually and can be vague. They include:

  • Chronic fatigue and weakness

  • Joint pain and stiffness

  • Stomach pain, especially in the upper right part of the abdomen

  • Changes in skin color, such as a gray or bronze tone

  • Unexplained weight loss

  • Cardiac symptoms such as palpitations or heart failure

  • Diabetes, due to damage to the pancreas

  • Liver problems such as enlarged liver, liver cirrhosis or liver cancer

Diagnosis of Hemochromatosis

The diagnosis of hemochromatosis is often made through blood tests that measure:

  • Serum ferritin: A protein that stores iron, high levels may indicate iron overload.

  • Transferrin saturation: The proportion of transferrin (a transport protein for iron) that is saturated with iron. High values ​​may indicate overload.

  • Genetic tests: To identify mutations in the HFE gene.

Treatment of Hemochromatosis

Treatment focuses on reducing excess iron in the body:

  • Phlebotomy (venipuncture): Regular removal of blood to reduce iron levels.

  • Chelation: Medicines that bind iron and help the body excrete it, used when phlebotomy is not possible.

Lifestyle advice for Hemochromatosis

  • Diet: Avoid iron-rich foods and iron supplements. Limit intake of vitamin C, which increases iron absorption.

  • Avoid alcohol: Alcohol can worsen liver damage.

  • Regular medical follow-up: To monitor iron levels and organ function.

Hemochromatosis can be managed effectively with early diagnosis and treatment, which can prevent or reduce the complications and improve the quality of life for those affected.

Questions and answers

Early symptoms are often subtle and include chronic fatigue, general weakness, and joint pain. Some individuals also notice a bronze or grayish tint to their skin or experience abdominal pain.

The most common treatment is phlebotomy (bloodletting), where blood is removed regularly to reduce iron levels. If phlebotomy isn't an option, chelation therapy using medication to bind iron may be used.

Yes. It is advised to avoid iron supplements and limit iron-rich foods. Additionally, you should limit Vitamin C intake (which increases iron absorption) and avoid alcohol to prevent further liver damage.

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Blood counts: Your doctor will check red, white and platelet counts to identify any signs of anaemia, infection or bleeding.

Nutrients and biochemical markers: Includes, for example, analysis and monitoring of blood sugar (glucose) levels, electrolyte levels (e.g. sodium, potassium), liver function tests (e.g. liver enzymes), kidney function tests (e.g. creatinine, urea) and lipid profile (e.g. cholesterol, triglycerides). The results of the tests give your doctor a better idea of your organ function, blood sugar level, cholesterol conditions and other important health aspects.

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In conclusion, the doctor weighs all test results based on the health check to assess your overall health, detect any abnormalities and identify possible underlying medical conditions.

What happens if I have abnormal test results?

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  • Measures your iron value and your iron depot.
  • Analysis of iron and ferritin.
  • Analysis of your blood status is included.
  • The test identifies any iron deficiency.

379 kr


-20%
  • Measuring your levels of ferritin
  • Get insight into the body's iron stores
  • Indication of iron status and possible iron deficiency

119 kr95 kr

FE

Iron

Iron deficiency test
  • Measuring your iron levels.
  • Get an insight into the body's iron stores.
  • Indication of possible iron deficiency.

99 kr

  • Measuring your transferrin value.
  • To be completed with an iron test.
  • Indication of iron deficiency or excess.

129 kr

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