$Unique_ID{BRK00136}
$Pretitle{}
$Title{How Rare is Hemochromatosis?}
$Subject{hemochromatosis iron blood letting genetic cirrhosis liver cancer
cancers skin discoloration bronze Pituitary failure testicles testicle atrophy
hereditary serum iron phlebotomy phlebotomies}
$Volume{D-7,V-7}
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Cirrhosis of the Liver*0009700.tid
Normal, Fatty, and Cirrhotic Livers*0009701.scf
Symptoms of Cirrhosis of the Liver*0009703.scf
Diseases of the Liver*0016101.scf}

Copyright (c) 1991-92,1993   Tribune Media Services, Inc.


How Rare is Hemochromatosis?


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QUESTION:  How rare is hemochromatosis?

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ANSWER:  Hemochromatosis--a genetic disease that, left untreated, can advance
to cirrhosis or liver cancer--may be more common than was previously
recognized.  Recent studies in Europe, Australia, and the United States show
that it affects one in 300 people.  It is most often found in people between
40 and 60, but it has also been detected in both younger and older people.
     Diagnosis is often difficult, because the disease can have a wide range
of symptoms or no symptoms at all.  One of the most common signs is a bronze
discoloration of the skin.  Pituitary failure is not uncommon and may lead to
atrophy of the testicles and loss of sex drive in males.
     Because hemochromatosis is hereditary, people who have blood relatives
with the disease may be at risk even if they have no symptoms.  Screening
tests to diagnose the disease include serum iron and total iron-binding
capacity tests.  If these suggest the disease, a liver biopsy may also be
useful.
     Although there is no cure, hemochromatosis can be controlled.  Treatment
involves phlebotomy--removing blood to reduce the level of iron--on a weekly
basis at first, and then every two to four months.

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The material contained here is "FOR INFORMATION ONLY" and should not replace
the counsel and advice of your personal physician.  Promptly consulting your
doctor is the best path to a quick and successful resolution of any medical
problem.