An adequate amount of iron is necessary to help the body function properly. Iron helps in the transport of oxygen, cell growth, and the production of proteins and enzymes. However, too much iron in the body, or hemochromatosis, can be toxic and lead to organ damage. This can lead to arthritis, diseases of the liver, thyroid and pancreas, gray- or bronze-colored skin, heart rhythm irregularities and many other conditions.
Genetics
Hemochromatosis can be primary or secondary. The primary form is inherited. The National Digestive Diseases Information Clearinghouse notes that if the body is working correctly, only about 10 percent of the iron that is consumed through food is absorbed by the body. Those with hemochromatosis can absorb and store 30 percent or higher. The primary form of this condition occurs due to a defect in the HFE gene. This gene normally controls the amount of iron the body retains from food. There are tests that can screen for this defect if other family members have it.
Anemia and Thalassemias
Hemochromatosis can also be secondary, or caused by a medical condition versus being inherited. According to the National Heart, Lung and Blood Institute, anemia and thalassemias are two such conditions that can lead to hemochromatosis. Both are conditions where the body does not have enough red blood cells. Anemia occurs due to excessive blood loss, if there is a malfunction in the body that causes it to not produce enough red blood cells, or the body destroys the red blood cells it has. Thalassemias occurs when the body does not make enough red blood cells. Red blood cells have a component called hemoglobin, which transports oxygen and houses iron. Without enough red blood cells and hemoglobin, iron can build up in the body.
Liver Disease
Diseases of the liver or alcoholism can contribute to the development of hemochromatosis. This can happen because the liver stores iron, and any problems with the liver can allow iron levels to get too high. Hemochromatosis is rare and can exist without causing any symptoms until it becomes severe, which means that treatment can be delayed, claims the University of Southern California School of Medicine.
Iron Supplements
Too much iron can build up in the blood during blood transfusions, by getting injections of iron or taking supplements, warns the Iron Disorders Institute. The daily recommended intake of iron can usually be met through eating a well-balanced diet. The Office of Dietary Supplements states that between 8 to 11 mg per day is enough, depending on age and gender. However, if too much iron is consumed and hemochromatosis occurs, removing the iron from the blood can be accomplished through a procedure that is similar to a blood transfusion.
References
- National Digestive Diseases Information Clearinghouse: Hemochromatosis
- National Heart, Lung and Blood Institute: What Causes Hemochromatosis
- University of Southern California School of Medicine: Hemochromatosis
- Iron Disorders Institute: Iron Disorders
- Office of Dietary Supplements: Dietary Supplement Fact Sheet: Iron
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