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Schaefer B, Pammer LM, Pfeifer B, Neururer S, Troppmair MR, Panzer M, Wagner S, Pertler E, Gieger C, Kronenberg F, Lamina C, Tilg H, Zoller H. Penetrance, cancer incidence and survival in HFE haemochromatosis-A population-based cohort study. Liver Int 2024; 44:838-847. [PMID: 38263707 DOI: 10.1111/liv.15797] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/04/2023] [Revised: 11/02/2023] [Accepted: 11/04/2023] [Indexed: 01/25/2024]
Abstract
BACKGROUND AND AIMS Haemochromatosis is characterized by progressive iron overload affecting the liver and can cause cirrhosis and hepatocellular carcinoma. Most haemochromatosis patients are homozygous for p.C282Y in HFE, but only a minority of individuals with this genotype will develop the disease. The aim was to assess the penetrance of iron overload, fibrosis, hepatocellular carcinoma and life expectancy. METHODS A total of 8839 individuals from the Austrian region of Tyrol were genotyped for the p.C282Y variant between 1997 and 2021. Demographic, laboratory parameters and causes of death were assessed from health records. Penetrance, survival, and cancer incidence were ascertained from diagnosed cases, insurance- and cancer registry data. Outcomes were compared with a propensity score-matched control population. RESULTS Median age at diagnosis in 542 p.C282Y homozygous individuals was 47.8 years (64% male). At genotyping, the prevalence of iron overload was 55%. The cumulative penetrance of haemochromatosis defined as the presence of provisional iron overload was 24.2% in males and 10.5% in females aged 60 years or younger. Among p.C282Y homozygotes of the same ages, the cumulative proportion of individuals without fibrosis (FIB-4 score < 1.3) was 92.8% in males and 96.7% in females. Median life expectancy was reduced by 6.8 years in individuals homozygous for p.C282Y when compared with population-matched controls (p = .001). Hepatocellular carcinoma incidence was not significantly higher in p.C282Y homozygotes than in controls matched for age and sex. CONCLUSION Reduced survival and the observed age-dependent increase in penetrance among p.C282Y homozygotes call for earlier diagnosis of haemochromatosis to prevent complications.
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Affiliation(s)
- Benedikt Schaefer
- Department of Medicine I, Gastroenterology, Hepatology and Endocrinology, Medical University of Innsbruck, Innsbruck, Austria
| | - Lorenz M Pammer
- Department of Medicine I, Gastroenterology, Hepatology and Endocrinology, Medical University of Innsbruck, Innsbruck, Austria
| | - Bernhard Pfeifer
- Division for Digital Medicine and Telehealth, UMIT TIROL-Private University for Health Sciences and Health Technology, Hall (Tyrol), Austria
- Tyrolean Federal Institute for Integrated Care, Tirol Kliniken Gmbh, Innsbruck, Austria
| | - Sabrina Neururer
- Division for Digital Medicine and Telehealth, UMIT TIROL-Private University for Health Sciences and Health Technology, Hall (Tyrol), Austria
- Tyrolean Federal Institute for Integrated Care, Tirol Kliniken Gmbh, Innsbruck, Austria
| | - Maria R Troppmair
- Department of Medicine I, Gastroenterology, Hepatology and Endocrinology, Medical University of Innsbruck, Innsbruck, Austria
| | - Marlene Panzer
- Department of Medicine I, Gastroenterology, Hepatology and Endocrinology, Medical University of Innsbruck, Innsbruck, Austria
| | - Sonja Wagner
- Department of Medicine I, Gastroenterology, Hepatology and Endocrinology, Medical University of Innsbruck, Innsbruck, Austria
- Christian Doppler Laboratory for Iron and Phosphate Biology, Medical University of Innsbruck, Innsbruck, Austria
| | - Elke Pertler
- Department of Medicine I, Gastroenterology, Hepatology and Endocrinology, Medical University of Innsbruck, Innsbruck, Austria
- Christian Doppler Laboratory for Iron and Phosphate Biology, Medical University of Innsbruck, Innsbruck, Austria
| | - Christian Gieger
- Institute of Epidemiology, Helmholtz Zentrum München, German Research Center for Environmental Health, Neuherberg, Germany
- Research Unit of Molecular Epidemiology, Helmholtz Zentrum München, German Research Center for Environmental Health, Neuherberg, Germany
| | - Florian Kronenberg
- Institute of Genetic Epidemiology, Medical University of Innsbruck, Innsbruck, Austria
| | - Claudia Lamina
- Institute of Genetic Epidemiology, Medical University of Innsbruck, Innsbruck, Austria
| | - Herbert Tilg
- Department of Medicine I, Gastroenterology, Hepatology and Endocrinology, Medical University of Innsbruck, Innsbruck, Austria
| | - Heinz Zoller
- Department of Medicine I, Gastroenterology, Hepatology and Endocrinology, Medical University of Innsbruck, Innsbruck, Austria
- Christian Doppler Laboratory for Iron and Phosphate Biology, Medical University of Innsbruck, Innsbruck, Austria
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Cobilinschi CO, Săulescu I, Caraiola S, Nițu AF, Dumitru RL, Husar-Sburlan I, Bălănescu AR, Opriș-Belinski D. A "Mix and Match" in Hemochromatosis-A Case Report and Literature Focus on the Liver. MEDICINA (KAUNAS, LITHUANIA) 2023; 59:1586. [PMID: 37763705 PMCID: PMC10534457 DOI: 10.3390/medicina59091586] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/20/2023] [Revised: 08/16/2023] [Accepted: 08/22/2023] [Indexed: 09/29/2023]
Abstract
Hemochromatosis is a genetic disorder characterized by increased iron storage in various organs with progressive multisystemic damage. Despite the reports dating back to 1865, the diagnosis of hemochromatosis poses a challenge to clinicians due to its non-specific symptoms and indolent course causing significant delay in disease recognition. The key organ that is affected by iron overload is the liver, suffering from fibrosis, cirrhosis or hepatocellular carcinoma, complications that can be prevented via early diagnosis and treatment. This review aims to draw attention to the pitfalls in diagnosing hemochromatosis. We present a case with multiorgan complaints, abnormal iron markers and a consistent genetic result. We then examine the relevant literature and discuss hemochromatosis subtypes and liver involvement, including transplant outcome and treatment options. In summary, hemochromatosis remains difficult to diagnose due to its symptom heterogeneity and rarity; thus, further education for practitioners of all disciplines is useful in facilitating its early recognition and management.
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Affiliation(s)
- Claudia Oana Cobilinschi
- Department of Rheumatology and Internal Medicine, Carol Davila University of Medicine and Pharmacy, 050474 Bucharest, Romania; (C.O.C.); (I.S.); (S.C.); (A.R.B.); (D.O.-B.)
- Department of Rheumatology and Internal Medicine, Sfânta Maria Clinical Hospital Bucharest, 011172 Bucharest, Romania
| | - Ioana Săulescu
- Department of Rheumatology and Internal Medicine, Carol Davila University of Medicine and Pharmacy, 050474 Bucharest, Romania; (C.O.C.); (I.S.); (S.C.); (A.R.B.); (D.O.-B.)
- Department of Rheumatology and Internal Medicine, Sfânta Maria Clinical Hospital Bucharest, 011172 Bucharest, Romania
| | - Simona Caraiola
- Department of Rheumatology and Internal Medicine, Carol Davila University of Medicine and Pharmacy, 050474 Bucharest, Romania; (C.O.C.); (I.S.); (S.C.); (A.R.B.); (D.O.-B.)
- Department of Internal Medicine, Colentina Clinical Hospital, Bucharest, 020125 Bucharest, Romania
| | - Andra Florina Nițu
- Department of Radiology and Medical Imaging, Sf Maria Clinical Hospital Bucharest, 011172 Bucharest, Romania;
| | - Radu Lucian Dumitru
- Department of Rheumatology and Internal Medicine, Carol Davila University of Medicine and Pharmacy, 050474 Bucharest, Romania; (C.O.C.); (I.S.); (S.C.); (A.R.B.); (D.O.-B.)
- Department of Radiology and Medical Imaging, Sf Maria Clinical Hospital Bucharest, 011172 Bucharest, Romania;
| | - Ioana Husar-Sburlan
- Department of Gastroenterology, Sf Maria Clinical Hospital Bucharest, 011172 Bucharest, Romania;
| | - Andra Rodica Bălănescu
- Department of Rheumatology and Internal Medicine, Carol Davila University of Medicine and Pharmacy, 050474 Bucharest, Romania; (C.O.C.); (I.S.); (S.C.); (A.R.B.); (D.O.-B.)
- Department of Rheumatology and Internal Medicine, Sfânta Maria Clinical Hospital Bucharest, 011172 Bucharest, Romania
| | - Daniela Opriș-Belinski
- Department of Rheumatology and Internal Medicine, Carol Davila University of Medicine and Pharmacy, 050474 Bucharest, Romania; (C.O.C.); (I.S.); (S.C.); (A.R.B.); (D.O.-B.)
- Department of Rheumatology and Internal Medicine, Sfânta Maria Clinical Hospital Bucharest, 011172 Bucharest, Romania
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Abstract
Haemochromatosis is one of the most common genetic diseases affecting patients of northern European ancestry. It is overdiagnosed in patients without iron overload and is underdiagnosed in many patients. Early diagnosis by genetic testing and therapy by periodic phlebotomy can prevent the most serious complications, which include liver cirrhosis, liver cancer, and death. This Seminar includes an update on the origins of haemochromatosis; and an overview pathophysiology, genetics, natural history, signs and symptoms, differential diagnoses, treatment with phlebotomy, outcomes, and future directions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Paul C Adams
- Department of Medicine, Schulich School of Medicine & Dentistry, Western University, London, ON, Canada.
| | - Gary Jeffrey
- Medical School, University of Western Australia, Perth, WA, Australia
| | - John Ryan
- Royal College of Surgeons of Ireland, Dublin, Ireland
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Natarajan Y, Patel P, Chu J, Yu X, Hernaez R, El-Serag H, Kanwal F. Risk of Hepatocellular Carcinoma in Patients with Various HFE Genotypes. Dig Dis Sci 2023; 68:312-322. [PMID: 35790703 DOI: 10.1007/s10620-022-07602-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/29/2021] [Accepted: 05/09/2022] [Indexed: 02/01/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND AND AIMS Hereditary hemochromatosis (HH) is associated with increased risk of hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC). However, HCC risk factors within this population and across various HFE genotypes remain unclear. METHODS We conducted a retrospective cohort study of patients with ≥ 1 HFE genotype test in the Veterans Health Administration. We followed patients until HCC, death, or 6/30/19. We calculated incidence rates (IRs) and used Cox proportional hazards models to estimate HCC risk. In patients with type-1 HH genotypes (C282Y/C282Y or C282Y/H63D), we examined risk factors for HCC. RESULTS We identified 5225 patients: 260 were C282Y/C282Y; 227 were C282Y/H63D; 436 were H63D heterozygous; 535 had other HFE mutations; 3767 without mutation. IR for C282Y/C282Y homozygotes (5.59/1000 PYs) and C282Y/H63D compound heterozygotes (4.12/1000 PYs) were significantly higher than controls (0.92/1000 PYs) with adjusted hazard ratio (adj HR), 95% CI 8.80, 4.17-18.54; and 5.25, 2.24-12.32, respectively. HCC risk was higher in H63D heterozygote than controls (adj HR = 2.82, 95% CI 1.21-6.58); cases were related to non-alcoholic fatty liver disease. Among patients with HH, age ≥ 65 (adj HR = 2.2, 95% CI 0.47-10.27), diabetes (adj HR 3.74, 95% CI 1.25-11.20) and high baseline aspartate-aminotransferase to platelet ratio-index (APRI, adj HR = 3.91, 95% CI 1.29-11.89) had higher risk. Among patients with high baseline ferritin, persistent ferritin > 250 ng/mL had higher risk. CONCLUSION HCC risk was high in C282Y homozygous and C282Y/H63D patients. These HFE genotypes, older age, diabetes, high APRI/ferritin levels were associated with increased risk. While H63D heterozygous genotype was associated with HCC risk, this association might be due to metabolic factors.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yamini Natarajan
- Section of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Department of Medicine, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, USA
- Michael E. DeBakey VA Medical Center and Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, USA
| | - Parth Patel
- Section of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Department of Medicine, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, USA.
- Division of Gastroenterology, School of Medicine, Washington University, Saint Louis, MO, USA.
| | - Jinna Chu
- Section of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Department of Medicine, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, USA
| | - Xian Yu
- Clinical Epidemiology and Comparative Effectiveness Program, Section of Health Services Research (IQuESt), Michael E. DeBakey VA Medical Center and Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX, USA
| | - Ruben Hernaez
- Section of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Department of Medicine, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, USA
- Michael E. DeBakey VA Medical Center and Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, USA
- Clinical Epidemiology and Comparative Effectiveness Program, Section of Health Services Research (IQuESt), Michael E. DeBakey VA Medical Center and Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX, USA
| | - Hashem El-Serag
- Section of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Department of Medicine, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, USA
- Michael E. DeBakey VA Medical Center and Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, USA
- Clinical Epidemiology and Comparative Effectiveness Program, Section of Health Services Research (IQuESt), Michael E. DeBakey VA Medical Center and Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX, USA
- Texas Medical Center Digestive Disease Center, Houston, TX, USA
| | - Fasiha Kanwal
- Section of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Department of Medicine, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, USA
- Michael E. DeBakey VA Medical Center and Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, USA
- Clinical Epidemiology and Comparative Effectiveness Program, Section of Health Services Research (IQuESt), Michael E. DeBakey VA Medical Center and Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX, USA
- Texas Medical Center Digestive Disease Center, Houston, TX, USA
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