DISEASE SCANNER

Global Incurable Diseases Tracker

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Hepatologic Disease

Hemochromatosis (Liver Focus)

HIGH SEVERITY

Iron overload disorder causing liver damage. Covered in detail in hematologic section. Primary focus here on hepatic manifestations including fibrosis, cirrhosis, and hepatocellular carcinoma risk.

Global Affected

1.5M

Countries

15

Symptoms

Fatigue
Abdominal pain
Joint pain
Skin bronzing
Diabetes
Cirrhosis symptoms
Liver enlargement
Elevated liver enzymes

Treatment Options

Therapeutic phlebotomy
Iron chelation
Liver transplantation
Diabetes management
Treatment of complications
HCC surveillance
Avoid alcohol
Avoid iron supplements

Risk Factors

1HFE gene mutations
2Northern European ancestry
3Family history
4Male gender
5Alcohol consumption
6Hepatitis C co-infection

Diagnostic Methods

  • 1Serum ferritin and transferrin saturation
  • 2HFE genetic testing
  • 3Liver MRI (iron quantification)
  • 4Liver biopsy
  • 5Liver function tests
  • 6Alpha-fetoprotein
  • 7Abdominal ultrasound

Prognosis

Excellent with early detection; liver damage preventable. Cirrhosis and liver cancer preventable with treatment. Co-existing liver disease worsens prognosis. Regular monitoring essential. Family screening important.

Prevention

  • Genetic screening
  • Regular monitoring
  • Avoid alcohol
  • Early treatment
  • Family screening
  • Screening for hepatocellular carcinoma

Research Status

Phlebotomy treatment highly effective if started early. Liver MRI for iron quantification. Surveillance for hepatocellular carcinoma in cirrhotic patients. Liver transplant for end-stage disease. Chelation for selected patients.

Affected Countries

AustraliaCanadaGermanyDenmarkFinlandFranceUnited KingdomIrelandLVNigeriaNetherlandsNorwayPhilippinesSwedenUnited States

Sources

  • https://www.liverfoundation.org/for-patients/about-the-liver/diseases-of-the-liver/hemochromatosis
  • https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/hemochromatosis
  • https://www.hematology.org/education/patients
  • https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books
  • https://rarediseases.org/rare-diseases

Medical Disclaimer

This information is for educational purposes only. Always consult healthcare professionals for medical advice, diagnosis, and treatment.