Alcohol and Haemachromatosis

[Jaqi]

I would like to know if Haemachromatosis affects the Livers ability to process alcohol.
More specifically, would having Haemachromatosis cause a higher blood alcohol concentration/reading than someone that didn't suffer from the disease.
Thanks

[Kevin Pho, MD]

That would depend if the hemochromatosis has progressed to a point where it is affecting liver function.  This can be measured via the liver function tests - specifically the ALT and AST level.  

If the disease is present, but the liver function is normal (i.e. normal liver enzymes), then it would be unlikely that the ability to process alcohol would be affected.

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.
Medical Weblog:
kevinmd_b

[Med_Writer]

Up to 1 in 200 individuals of northern European descent are affected by a genetic disorder known as hereditary hemochromatosis (HH). It is characterized by iron deposition in the liver and other tissues as a result of a small increase in intestinal iron absorption over many years. If untreated, tissue iron accumulation may lead to cirrhosis of the liver, diabetes, heart muscle damage (cardiomyopathy), or arthritis. HH was known to be a genetic disorder affecting intestinal iron absorption for many years, but the gene (HFE) and the mutation resulting in HH were only identified in 1996. At present, the exact role of the protein encoded by the HFE gene in intestinal iron absorption is not well understood. Iron overload in HH is treated by phlebotomy, the removal of 500 ml of blood at a time, at intervals determined by the severity of the iron overload. Individuals with HH are advised to avoid supplemental iron, but are not generally advised to avoid iron-rich foods.

Alcohol consumption is strongly discouraged due to the increased risk of cirrhosis of the liver. Genetic testing, which requires a blood sample, is available for those who may be at risk for HH, for example, individuals with a family history of hemochromatosis.

Written by:
Jane Higdon, Ph.D.
Linus Pauling Institute
Oregon State University

Reviewed by:
Marianne Wessling-Resnick, Ph.D.
Professor of Nutritional Biochemistry
Harvard School of Public Health