Hemochromatosis |
High iron count02/07/2007 |
what is the cause of high iron in the blood? thank you
High levels of serum iron can occur as the result of:
- multiple blood transfusions
- iron injections into muscle
- lead poisoning
- liver disease
- or kidney disease
among other conditions. It can also be due to the genetic condition hemochromatosis.
Certain tests are needed to determine if a person has iron overload: a fasting serum iron and total iron binding capacity (TIBC) are used to calculate the transferrin- saturation percentage. Serum ferritin measures the amount of iron stored in the body.
These tests should be ordered by a physician, and if abnormal, genetic testing can be used to confirm the diagnosis of hemochromatosis. Individuals may meet with a physician and genetic counselor to learn more about genetic testing, the inheritance of hemochromatosis, risk to family members, and treatment options.
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Amy Curry Sturm, MS, CGC Clinical Assistant Professor of Human Genetics College of Medicine The Ohio State University |