Iron metallic discoloration

From WikiMD's Food, Medicine & Wellness Encyclopedia

Iron Metallic Discoloration is a medical condition that occurs when iron deposits in the body cause a change in skin color. This can occur due to a variety of reasons, including excessive iron intake, certain medical conditions, and genetic disorders.

Causes[edit | edit source]

Iron metallic discoloration can be caused by a variety of factors. These include:

  • Iron Overload: This occurs when the body absorbs too much iron from the food and drinks consumed. This excess iron is then stored in the body's tissues and organs, particularly the skin, causing discoloration.
  • Hemochromatosis: This is a genetic disorder that causes the body to absorb too much iron from the diet. The excess iron is then deposited in various organs, including the skin, leading to discoloration.
  • Porphyria Cutanea Tarda: This is a type of porphyria that can cause iron to accumulate in the liver, leading to skin discoloration.

Symptoms[edit | edit source]

The primary symptom of iron metallic discoloration is a change in skin color. This can range from a slight bronze or gray hue to a more pronounced brown or black discoloration. Other symptoms can include:

Treatment[edit | edit source]

Treatment for iron metallic discoloration primarily involves addressing the underlying cause of the iron overload. This can include:

  • Phlebotomy: This is a procedure that removes blood from the body, reducing the amount of iron.

See Also[edit | edit source]

Iron metallic discoloration Resources
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Contributors: Prab R. Tumpati, MD