Q:
What is hemochromatosis and what causes it?
A:
People having hereditary hemochromatosis absorb too much iron from the food eaten. Excess iron is stored in the organs, especially liver, heart and pancreas.
Too much iron can cause life-threatening conditions, such as liver disease, heart problems and diabetes.
Causes
There are four types of hemochromatosis:
- Hereditary hemochromatosis.
- Juvenile hemochromatosis.
- Neonatal hemochromatosis.
- Secondary hemochromatosis.
The first type is caused by two genes (called HFE) mutatioins, C282Y and H638.
Second: mutations in the hemojuvelin or hepcidin genes.
Third: an autoimmune disease.
Fourth: multiple blood transfusions, which can lead to excess iron accumulation.
