Haemochromatosis:Phlebotomy Versus Erythrocytapheresis Therapy

Therapeutic Erythrocytapheresis as Treatment for Hemochromatosis Patients.

In this project we plan to evaluate the effectiveness of erythrocytapheresis against phlebotomy, both regarding the impact on the reduction in iron overload as well as reduction in patient "burden". Aspects of cost effectiveness will be included in the final analysis. Results of the study would allow decision-making based on Evidence Based Medicine on the "best" therapeutic options available for newly-diagnosed as well as existing primary hemochromatosis patients.

In this project we plan to evaluate the effectiveness of erythrocytapheresis against phlebotomy, both regarding the impact on the reduction in iron overload as well as reduction in patient "burden". Aspects of cost effectiveness will be included in the final analysis. The results of the study would allow decision-making based on Evidence Based Medicine on the "best" therapeutic options available for newly-diagnosed as well as existing primary hemochromatosis patients.

Inclusion Criteria:

• Hereditary haemochromatosis patients

Exclusion Criteria:

• Malignancies, severe arrhythmias, congestive heart failure and/or recent angina, severe liver disease, epileptic seizures preceding in last 3 months before planned treatment