CASE-REPORT - ARTHROPATHY AS THE PRESENTING SYMPTOM IN HEREDITARY HEMOCHROMATOSIS

Hemochromatosis is characterized by excessive absorption and subsequen t deposition of iron in various organs and is prevalent in 1 out of 20 ,000 hospitalized patients. Most patients with hereditary hemochromato sis (HHC) become symptomatic between the ages of 50 and 60 years. Dist inct forms of arthritis have been associated with HHC and may be the i nitial clinical manifestation in some patients. This is a case of a pa tient who had chronic hip and back pain and painless swelling over the knuckles. Radiographs revealed classical signs of HHC. Early recognit ion and prompt institution of phlebotomy can improve the outcome of pa tients with HHC.