Haemochromatosis: 1. What GPs need to know

This is one module of the haemochromatosis series of education, which is also available as the 5-hour Accredited CPD Activity Haemochromatosis: Preventing harm caused by iron overload with timely diagnosis and best practice management.

 

This module looks at the common causes of under-diagnosis and misdiagnosis of hereditary haemochromatosis in Australia. Participants will learn how to determine when hereditary haemochromatosis should be part of their differential diagnosis. The module also covers iron study test results and how to explain these results to patients.

On completion of this education activity participants will be able to:

• Explain, in simple terms, the genetic cause of hereditary haemochromatosis and the pathological processes that lead to iron overload.
• Identify general symptoms of iron overload and symptoms which indicate higher levels of iron overload around specific organs.
• Distinguish factors which enhance or reduce the degree of iron loading in hereditary haemochromatosis.
• Assess when iron study test results indicate iron overload and determine when genetic testing for haemochromatosis is warranted.
• Describe how iron levels are reduced in patients with hereditary haemochromatosis, and how to access the therapeutic venesection service offered by the Australian Red Cross Blood service.

This activity is sponsored by Haemochromatosis Australia.