Haemochromatosis

Iron is essential for the body to function, and its quantity is therefore carefully regulated. Iron absorption increases in cases of iron deficiency or anaemia. Elimination, however, cannot be modulated and cannot be increased in the event of iron overload. In certain genetic conditions, the body abnormally accumulates iron, which is deposited in various organs. This accumulation causes chronic oxidation, leading to lesions that may sometimes be irreversible in the affected organs. These include, in particular, the liver (with damage that may lead to cirrhosis) and the organs that regulate hormones (potentially resulting in diabetes, for example).

This iron overload causes very non-specific symptoms such as fatigue, joint pain, erectile dysfunction, and so on. As these different diseases have specific consequences and require specific management, the first step is to establish an accurate diagnosis. To this end, the department works closely with the Chemistry and Genetics Laboratory. Management is based on correcting the iron overload. This may involve regular venesection or treatment with specific medicines known as chelators. 

As these diseases are most often transmitted genetically or inherited, it is important that patients and their families have access to a specific consultation known as genetic counselling.