For this reason hemochromatosis can go undetected until so much tissue damage has been done that the patient's body is unable to recover. The most effective way to diagnose hemochromatosis is with a blood test to measure the amount of iron present. Although radiography cannot be used to diagnose the actual disease of hemochromatosis several of its complications due to iron overload can be diagnosed through specialized imaging modalities. Unfortunately the blood that is drawn cannot be used by blood banks because if it were given to another person they could develop secondary hemochromatosis. For these patient specific treatments may vary according to how advanced the complications are.
Prognosis directly relates to treatment.
Patients can attempt to control iron absorption by monitoring iron intake in food. This method should not be solely relied upon to control iron intake and a physician should always be involved in decision-making for the best treatment. Diagnosis of Hemochromatosis Probands in a Community Hospital . Management of Hemochromatosis . Robbins Pathologic Basis of Disease .