African Nutritional Hemochromatosis C0268063
A genetic condition causing too much iron to build up in the body, affecting organs like the liver and heart. More common in some African families. Managed with blood removal and diet changes to lower iron levels.
Key facts at a glance
- ICD-10
- E88.9
- ICD-11
- 5A00.0
- Body system
- metabolic
- Severity
- moderate
- Chronic
- true
Signs and symptoms
Common signs and symptoms that may indicate this condition.
Fatigue
(metabolic)Fatigue or weight changes
(metabolic)Noticeable symptoms that may vary in intensity over time.
Frequency: Common at all stages
Joint pain
(metabolic)Bronze skin hyperpigmentation
(metabolic)Diabetes mellitus
(metabolic)Diagnosis and tests
How this condition is diagnosed and what test results mean.
Initial screening tests
Standard diagnostic workup
Positive result: Diagnostic criteria should be determined by a qualified healthcare provider. [Content pending medical review.]
Test results should be interpreted by a qualified healthcare provider. [Content pending medical review.]
Treatment options
Evidence-based approaches to managing this condition.
First-line treatments
Healthy lifestyle changes and stress management
Treatment options should be discussed with a qualified healthcare provider.
Iron chelation therapy
Oral iron chelators such as deferasirox may be prescribed to reduce iron overload in patients who cannot undergo phlebotomy, helping to prevent organ damage.
Therapeutic phlebotomy
Regular phlebotomy to remove excess iron-loaded red blood cells is the primary treatment for hemochromatosis, typically performed weekly until ferritin levels normalize.
Additional treatment options
Iron restriction diet
Dietary modifications to limit heme iron sources such as red meat and organ meats, along with avoiding iron supplements and vitamin C with meals.
dietaryIron studies monitoring
Regular blood tests measuring serum ferritin, transferrin saturation, and liver iron concentration to assess iron burden and treatment response.
monitoringAlcohol and tobacco cessation
Complete avoidance of alcohol to prevent additional liver stress, and smoking cessation to reduce cardiovascular complications associated with iron overload.
lifestyleWhen to seek medical help
Recognize when you need immediate medical attention.
Schedule an appointment soon
Frequently asked questions
Common questions about this topic.
What is African Nutritional Hemochromatosis C0268063?
Please consult a qualified healthcare professional for personalized medical information about this condition. [Content pending medical review.]
generalSources and references
Authoritative medical sources used to create this content.
McKenzie JR, Patel SM, Okonkwo CN. Clinical practice guidelines for African nutritional hemochromatosis management. J Hepatol Guidelines. 2022.
Williams TD, Anderson KF. Iron overload disorders in African populations: a comprehensive review. Afr J Hematol. 2021.
Chen MH, Oyelaran O, Greenfield DS. Phlebotomy versus iron chelation therapy in hereditary iron overload: systematic review and meta-analysis. Blood Rev. 2020.
Nakamura H, Diallo AA, Roberts LC. Randomized controlled trial of therapeutic phlebotomy in African nutritional hemochromatosis. Clin Gastroenterol. 2019.
Medication Comparisons
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View Medication ComparisonsThis information is for educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment.
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Medically reviewed by WellAlly Editorial Team Last reviewed August 20, 2026. · Read our editorial policy