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Iron Overload in
HYPOTRANSFERRINEMIA/ATRANSFERRINEMIA
In hypotransferrinemia/atransferrinemia, impaired transferrin production (or the production of abnormal transferrin) allows non-transferrin-bound iron (NTBI) to be absorbed through the intestine, from where most is deposited in the liver via portal circulation (1,2). Transferrin deficiency may lead to reduced transport of iron to the bone marrow, and therefore impaired erythropoiesis. Iron therefore remains in storage sites such as the liver, leading toiron overload.
How aceruloplasminemia causes iron overload
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Iron and Immune
Compromise
Patients with chronic iron overload may
have increased susceptibility to infections, often
with unusual microorganisms.
References
- * (1) Ponka P, Rare causes of hereditary iron overload. Semin Hematol. 2002;39(4):249-62.
- * (2) Bannerman RM, Genetic defects of iron transport. Fed Proc. 1976;35(11):2281-5.