Identification, Biochemical Effects and Molecular Determinants of Iron Toxicity in a Military Setting
Abstract
Hemochromatosis is a disorder that has both a long and short history. While many individuals have been affected over time, it has only been recently that clinical diagnosis has been possible. Hemochromatosis is an autosomal recessive disorder. There are numerous autosomal recessive disorders. Some common examples are cystic fibrosis, sickle cell anemia, and Tay Sachs disease. However, hemochiomatosis is the most common of them all. Up to 0.5 percent of Americans are homozygous for the gene that causes hemochiomatosis and can be considered at risk for developing it. Approximately ten percent of the population is heterozygous for the gene. Hemochiomatosis putatively causes a large number of pathologic conditions. The wide variety of diseases can make the diagnosis of hemochromatosis especially troublesome. In all but the very late stages of the disorder, the only way for diagnosis to occur is by biochemical screening of affected individuals. Unlike many other genetic disorders, there is an effective treatment for hemochromatosis. Iron can be removed from the affected individual's body by therapeutic phlebotomy.
Document Details
- Document Type
- Technical Report
- Publication Date
- Aug 02, 2003
- Accession Number
- ADA417198
Entities
People
- Nathan H. Johnson
Organizations
- Mississippi State University