For Rare Blood Disorder, Pumping Iron Is the Cure

The best means of treating hemochromatosis is phlebotomy, Koenig said -- bloodletting, one of the most ancient, and mostly discredited, forms of medical treatment. But, in this case, the draining of blood forces the body to process its excess iron.

"When you take blood out of the body, iron stored in body tissue is used to make new blood," Koenig said.

Some hemochromatosis sufferers can give blood as frequently as twice a week to stay healthy, very often to blood banks. "Most people only are allowed to give blood once every seven weeks," Koenig said.

Oral medications that would help the body better rid itself of iron are being tested, but, for the time being, bloodletting is the most simple and pain-free way to help sufferers lead normal lives, he said.

More information

To learn more about hemochromatosis, visit the Iron Disorders Institute.