HEMOCHROMATOSIS, HEREDITARY

Course overview

The general term hemochromatosis is defined as an excess amount of iron with a hereditary (primary) cause or secondary cause (e.g., chronic hemolysis, iron poisoning, alcohol abuse). Hereditary hemochromatosis (HHC) is a common genetic disorder characterized by the pathologic accumulation of iron in the parenchyma of the liver, heart, pancreas, adrenal glands, testes in men, kidneys, and anterior pituitary. This continuing education module is designed to give the reader/learner an increased understanding of HHC, including its clinical presentation, symptoms, and treatment, and to aid in caring for the patient with this diagnosis. Readers may explore any or all of the topics. One contact hour of continuing education credit is available for those who successfully complete the post-test and evaluation form.