These rare genetic disorders are characterized by the accumulation of iron in the body's tissues and organs such as the liver, heart and pancreas.
Because humans cannot increase the excretion of iron, excess iron can overload and eventually can lead to life-threatening conditions, such as liver disease, heart problems and diabetes.
The genes that cause hemochromatosis are inherited, but only a minority of people who have the genes ever develop serious problems.
The symptoms of classic hereditary hemochromatosis develop gradually over many years and may include weakness, lethargy, arthralgias, and impotence. Later manifestations include arthralgias, osteoporosis, cirrhosis, hepatocellular cancer, cardiomyopathy, dysrhythmia, diabetes mellitus, and hypogonadism.
Symptoms usually become apparent at some point between 40-60 years of age, but may develop early or later. Symptoms rarely develop before 20 years of age.
Hereditary hemochromatosis
