Iron Jak
My blogs
| Gender | Male |
|---|---|
| Industry | Technology |
| Introduction | I have two unrelated genetic blood disorders: Hemochromatosis ("Iron Overload") and Polycythemia Vera (the JAK-2 Mutation). There may be 4-5 others in the United States who are also "special" having both disorders. This blog tracks my progress in dealing with the mutated genetics - and provides personal experience and background information on the conditions.
Hereditary Hemochromatosis (HHC) is an inherited recessive trait: matching ("homozygous") C282Y mutations on the 6th chromosome. Untreated, it can create serious organ damage. Like 10% of Caucasians of northern European ancestry, my mom and dad were carriers of the recessive gene. I got lucky. Polycythemia Vera ("PV") is a rare mutation of stem cells within the bone marrow that causes the overproduction of white blood cells, red blood cells, and platelets. Like any other myeloproliferative disorder, it is a cancer. Untreated, the "JAK-2" mutation on the 3rd human chromosome causes the blood cells and platelets to reproduce at an uncontrolled rate, potentially causing strokes or heart attacks. |