The treatment of excess iron in the blood is applied to facilitate the removal of excess iron from the body and prevent damage to organs. This treatment is carried out through therapeutic phlebotomy (bloodletting). Regular blood donation helps lower iron levels in the blood, preventing its accumulation in the body. Additionally, medications known as iron chelators can be used. These drugs bind to excess iron, allowing it to be excreted through urine or feces.
The treatment of excess iron in the blood may require long-term monitoring, depending on the underlying cause of the condition. In cases of iron overload caused by genetic disorders such as hemochromatosis, regular blood donation can become a lifestyle necessity. On the other hand, in patients with certain liver diseases or conditions requiring frequent blood transfusions, iron accumulation can become more complex, necessitating additional drug therapies.
How Is Excess Iron in the Blood Treated?
The treatment of excess iron in the blood is aimed at preventing the harmful effects of excessive iron accumulation in the body. Excess iron can result from genetic disorders such as hemochromatosis or conditions that require frequent blood transfusions. Excessive iron can damage multiple organs, particularly the liver, heart, and pancreas. Therefore, early diagnosis and treatment are of great importance.
The most common treatment method is therapeutic phlebotomy. This procedure involves regularly drawing blood to remove excess iron from the body. Initially, blood is drawn weekly or biweekly, and as the patient’s iron levels decrease, the frequency of the procedure is reduced. This ensures a controlled reduction of iron in the body. Therapeutic phlebotomy is particularly effective for patients with genetic hemochromatosis.
For some patients, iron chelators—a type of medication—may be necessary. These drugs bind to excess iron in the blood and facilitate its excretion through urine or feces. This method is especially suitable for patients who undergo frequent blood transfusions. Additionally, dietary adjustments can support the treatment process. Reducing the consumption of iron-rich foods, limiting vitamin C intake, and avoiding alcohol are crucial steps.
Regular medical check-ups are essential during the treatment process. Blood tests are conducted to monitor ferritin and transferrin saturation levels. This helps prevent disease progression and minimizes potential risks. When detected early and managed properly, excess iron can be controlled before it causes severe organ damage.
Which Tests Are Performed During the Treatment Process for Excess Iron in the Blood?
During the treatment process for excess iron in the blood, various tests are conducted to assess iron levels in the body and detect potential organ damage. These tests play a critical role in both diagnosing the condition and monitoring the effectiveness of treatment. Excess iron accumulation is identified through specific blood tests, and the progress of treatment is tracked using these tests.
One of the most commonly used tests is the serum ferritin test. Ferritin is a protein responsible for storing iron in the body, and its levels in the blood serve as an important indicator of iron accumulation. Elevated ferritin levels may suggest excess iron in the body. However, since infections or inflammatory conditions can also increase ferritin levels, this test alone is not sufficient for a definitive diagnosis.
Additionally, the transferrin saturation test is performed. Transferrin is a protein that transports iron through the bloodstream. This test measures how much of the iron in the blood is bound to transferrin. Results above 45% indicate iron overload. Furthermore, a red blood cell count is conducted, as excess iron can sometimes affect the production and function of red blood cells. Therefore, a complete blood count (CBC) is also an essential test.
Liver enzyme tests are used to assess potential organ damage caused by iron overload, particularly in the liver. Since excess iron can accumulate in the liver and cause damage, additional tests such as MRI imaging or a liver biopsy may be performed to evaluate organ damage. The selection of tests depends on the patient’s overall health condition and is determined by the physician accordingly.
