Haemochromatosis: a time for guidelines?

Abstract

Hereditary haemochromatosis is an autosomal recessive metabolic abnormality which causes excessive absorption of dietary iron. Iron accumulation leads to potentially fatal damage to organs such as the heart, liver and pancreas. Normal life expectancy can be restored simply by therapeutic venesection. Discovery of the gene, HFE, has rekindled interest in pathogenesis, management and screening strategies.