Hemochromatosis
Also known as: Iron Overload Disorder · Hämochromatose · Eisenspeicherkrankheit · Canine Hemochromatosis · Hereditary Hemochromatosis
Overview
What it is
Hemochromatosis is a metabolic disorder where the body absorbs excessive iron from food, leading to a toxic buildup in vital organs, particularly the liver. Over time, this excess iron damages cells and impairs organ function. Diagnosis is confirmed using a specialized blood test called an iron panel (Eisen-Panel) alongside a liver biopsy (Leberbiopsie) to evaluate iron levels in the liver cells.
How it presents
Symptoms typically appear in middle age and include lethargy, weight loss, vomiting, increased thirst, and a yellowish tint to the skin and gums (jaundice). These signs reflect progressive liver damage caused by the iron accumulation.
Treatment
The condition is incurable but can be managed long-term through regular blood removal (phlebotomy), specialized diets, and medication. This lifelong management typically costs between 2,000 and 8,000 EUR.
How it's tested
Bestimmung des Eisenstatus und histopathologische Leberbiopsie(Eisen-Panel & Leberbiopsie)
Primary testClinical examDie Diagnose erfolgt klinisch durch die Bestimmung von Serum-Eisen, Ferritin und Transferrinsättigung im Blut sowie den histopathologischen Nachweis von Eisenablagerungen in einer Leberbiopsie.
Issuing body: vet
Result scheme: Clear/Carrier/Affected
Affected breeds
Treatment cost
Estimated range of typical treatment cost. Actual cost depends on severity, clinic and region.
Frequently asked
What is Hemochromatosis?
Hemochromatosis is a metabolic disorder where the body absorbs excessive iron from food, leading to a toxic buildup in vital organs, particularly the liver. Over time, this excess iron damages cells and impairs organ function. Diagnosis is confirmed using a specialized blood test called an iron panel (Eisen-Panel) alongside a liver biopsy (Leberbiopsie) to evaluate iron levels in the liver cells.
How is Hemochromatosis tested?
Tests currently in our database: Bestimmung des Eisenstatus und histopathologische Leberbiopsie.
Which breeds are most affected?
This condition isn't tied to a specific breed in our database.