Primary hemochromatosis in childhood

Pediatrics. 1987 Oct;80(4):549-54.

Abstract

Primary hemochromatosis is a genetic disorder rarely recognized in childhood; its long-term consequences include cirrhosis and liver cancer. We report a family with primary hemochromatosis affecting three generations, including a 7-year-old child and a 29-month-old child; these are the youngest children with primary hemochromatosis yet reported. The pathophysiology, genetics, and clinical findings of this disorder are reviewed. Serum ferritin and transferrin saturation are useful screening tests; definitive diagnosis, however, depends on determination of hepatic iron content. A plan for evaluating and treating affected patients is proposed. Physicians caring for children must learn to recognize this potentially treatable disorder.

Publication types

  • Case Reports
  • Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't

MeSH terms

  • Adult
  • Child
  • Child, Preschool
  • Female
  • Ferritins / blood
  • HLA Antigens / analysis
  • Hemochromatosis / diagnosis
  • Hemochromatosis / genetics*
  • Hemochromatosis / therapy
  • Humans
  • Iron / metabolism
  • Liver / metabolism
  • Liver / pathology
  • Male
  • Middle Aged
  • Pedigree
  • Transferrin / metabolism

Substances

  • HLA Antigens
  • Transferrin
  • Ferritins
  • Iron