Chronic iron overload and toxicity: Clinical chemistry perspective

Clinical Laboratory Science, Summer 2001 by Kang, Jae O

With early diagnosis and appropriate treatment, the toxicity of chronic iron overload can be effectively treated, and even prevented. For example, a study by Niederau showed that when phlebotomies were initiated before patients developed cirrhosis, hemochromatosis reverted to normal.44 Even among those with cirrhosis, the 10-year survival rate was over 75% which was a remarkable improvement over the 6% 10-year survival rate after diagnosis without the removal of excess iron. Clinical chemistry laboratories can play a vital role in diagnosing and monitoring iron overload, particularly since a non-invasive test for the HFE gene has been developed and commercial reagent kits are now available.97 Some scientists have suggested that screening for the HFE gene in the asymptomatic population be considered.96 Such a widespread screening program, if adopted, would expand the role of clinical laboratory scientists significantly. These professionals must be prepared to accept this important role.

ACKNOWLEDGEMENT

The author acknowledges the assistance of Claire A Archambault in the preparation of this manuscript.

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