Steven A. Sandler, M.D.
Board-Certified in
Hematology & Oncology

Telephone Numbers
Office: (847) 933-0875
Fax: (847) 933-0878
Answering Service: (773) 594-7340

Skokie Office
9669 Kenton, Suite 510
Skokie, IL 60076
Map and directions

Chicago Office
7447 W. Talcott Ave., Suite 318
Chicago, IL 60631
Map and directions

Call us at 847-933-0875 or send Dr. Sandler a message via the form below. Please note that this form is for non-emergencies only.

Hemochromatosis and Treatment

About Hemochromatosis

Hemochromatosis is an iron overload caused by genetics or a metabolic disorder. This condition commonly affects the heart, liver, and endocrine glands.

Signs and symptoms of hemochromatosis may include:

• Diabetes
• Heart problems
• Tanning of the skin
• Testicular failure
• Arthritis
• Cirrhosis of the liver

Hemochromatosis Treatment

Routine treatment in an otherwise healthy person consists of regularly scheduled phlebotomies (bloodletting). When first diagnosed, the phlebotomies may be fairly frequent, perhaps as often as once a week, until iron levels can be brought within a normal range. Once iron and other markers are within the normal range, phlebotomies may be scheduled every other month or every three months depending upon the patient's rate of iron loading.

For those unable to tolerate routine blood draws, there is a chelating agent called Deferoxamine which binds with iron in the blood stream and enhances its elimination through urine and stools. Typical treatment for chronic iron overload requires subcutaneous injection over a period of 8-12 hours daily.