Phlebotomy

Hi there I am a 33 year old male & found out I had hemochromatosis 10 years ago.

I had a phlebotomy 3 months ago ferritin was 26.

Just had my test checked again here they are:

   Iron    175  High  (35-150)
   TIBC    268        (260-400)
Iron Sat   65%  High  (11-46%)
Ferritin   15    Low
WBC        5.0          
RBC        5.15  
Hematocrit 44.4  
HGB        16.6
MCV        86
MCH        32.1h    (27.0-31.2)
MCHC       37.3h     (31.8-35.4)
RDW        11.6     (11.6-14.8)
I was wondering why my iron & iron saturation is high & my ferritin is 15?Would it be okay to get a phlebotomy?The last one was 3 months ago.

[Kevin Pho, MD]

Iron deficiency can present with this picture.  Hemochromatosis typically would have an elevated ferritin level, not a low one.

Obtaining a colonoscopy to evaluate for any sources of GI bleeding can be considered.  However, with a non-revealing CBC, this is less likely.

You can also obtain a hematology consult, and have a peripheral smear looked at under a microscope.  

These options can be discussed with your personal physician.

Followup with your personal physician is essential.

This answer is not intended as and does not substitute for medical advice - the information presented is for patient education only. Please see your personal physician for further evaluation of your individual case.

Kevin, M.D.
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