Hemochromatosis, also called iron overload disease, is the most common genetic disorder in the US. It is a metabolic disorder that causes increased absorption of iron, which is deposited in the body tissues and organs. The iron accumulates in the body where it may become toxic and cause damage.

One method of treatment for hemochromatosis is to periodically withdraw blood from the patient's body in order to lower his or her iron levels. We are often asked by a patient's physician to draw a unit of blood from a person with hemochromatosis as part of the required treatment. There is a fee for this procedure known as therapeutic phlebotomy.

This iron storage defect cannot be transmitted by blood and the majority of collections from hemochromatosis patients might be suitable for transfusion. At the present time, however, the Red Cross does not collect blood from hemochromatosis patients for transfusion use. It is done strictly as a service to the patient.

The Red Cross relies solely on volunteer blood donors who donate purely for altruistic reasons. A small number of blood centers in the United States have received waivers from the Food and Drug Administration to transfuse blood drawn from hemochromatosis patients who are otherwise eligible as donors. The Red Cross is carefully observing their experiences and will maintain an open mind as to the wisdom of using blood donations from patients with hemochromatosis in the future.

Medical Update