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Hemochromatosis type 3 is a disease in which too much iron builds up in the body. This is also called iron overload. Accumulation of iron in the organs is toxic and can cause organ damage. While many organs can be affected, iron overload is especially likely to affect the liver, heart, and pancreas. Early symptoms of hemochromatosis type 3 can include fatigue, weakness, and joint pain. Other symptoms may include abdominal pain, loss of sex drive, liver disease, diabetes, heart problems, and skin discoloration.[1364] Symptoms of hemochromatosis type 3 typically begin before 30-years-old.[1365]
Hemochromatosis type 3 is caused by genetic changes (mutations or pathogenic variants) to the TFR2 gene.[1365][14348] The disease is inherited in an autosomal recessive manner. A diagnosis of hemochromatosis type 3 is suspected when a doctor observes signs and symptoms of the disease. A doctor may decide to order laboratory tests including a liver biopsy, MRI, or blood test. The diagnosis can be confirmed with genetic testing.[1364] Treatment of hemochromatosis type 3 usually involves reducing iron levels by removing blood (phlebotomy) or iron chelation. These treatments can prevent additional organ damage but typically do not reverse existing damage.[1364][10050]
To learn more about other types of hemochromatosis click on the disease names below:
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