Neonatal Hemochromatosis (NH) is a rare and severe liver disease that affects newborn babies. It is characterized by excessive iron accumulation in the liver and other organs, leading to liver failure and potentially life-threatening complications.
NH is not a hereditary condition, meaning it is not passed down from parents to their children through genetic mutations. Instead, it is believed to be caused by an immune response in the mother's body during pregnancy, where antibodies attack the baby's liver cells and trigger iron overload.
The exact cause of this immune response is still unknown, and there are no specific risk factors identified. NH can affect any baby, regardless of their gender, ethnicity, or family history.
Early diagnosis of NH is crucial to prevent severe liver damage. Symptoms may include jaundice (yellowing of the skin and eyes), poor feeding, enlarged liver, and abnormal liver function tests. Diagnostic tests such as liver biopsies, blood tests, and imaging studies are used to confirm the condition.
Unfortunately, there is currently no cure for NH. Treatment mainly focuses on managing symptoms and providing supportive care, such as intravenous fluids, nutrition support, and medications to support liver function. In severe cases, a liver transplant may be necessary.
Research efforts are ongoing to better understand the underlying mechanisms of NH and develop more effective treatments. Genetic counseling is recommended for families affected by NH to discuss the risks of recurrence in future pregnancies.