Diagnosis and Current Treatment Strategies for Adult and Juvenile Hereditary Hemochromatosis
Tori Tyler
College of Osteopathic Medicine, Kansas City University, Kansas City, MO 64106 USA.
Amber Wiggins-McDaniel
College of Biosciences, Kansas City University, Kansas City, MO 64106 USA.
Staton McBroom
College of Biosciences, Kansas City University, Kansas City, MO 64106 USA.
Caroline Parry
College of Biosciences, Kansas City University, Kansas City, MO 64106 USA.
Robert Tyler
College of Osteopathic Medicine, Department of Primary Care, Kansas City University, Joplin, MO 64804 USA.
Robert A. White *
College of Biosciences, Kansas City University, Kansas City, MO 64106 USA.
*Author to whom correspondence should be addressed.
Abstract
Hemochromatosis is a common genetic disorder manifesting as an iron overload state requiring complex processes in diagnosis, treatment, and management of both adult, and pediatric, populations. This review outlines general diagnostic and treatment strategies for hemochromatosis detailing fundamental processes in iron excess, or iron overload, through physiologic function and associated pathological effects. Genetic mutations, as ascribed to hemochromatosis, have significant impact in producing pathophysiology. Understanding basic pathophysiological mechanisms can inform future diagnosis and treatment through advances such as erythrocytophoresis. Linking concepts related to the diagnosis, treatment, and management of adult and juvenile hereditary hemochromatosis with scientific advances may enlighten clinical medicine and future hemochromatosis therapy.
Keywords: Adult Hemochromatosis, juvenile hemochromatosis, iron overloading, hemochromatosis management and therapy