Haemochromatosis genetic blood test in Chiswick
This genetic test checks the HFE gene for the variants most often behind hereditary haemochromatosis, an inherited tendency to absorb too much iron. People book it when a relative is affected or iron levels have come back high.
What the test measures
Hereditary haemochromatosis is one of the most common inherited conditions in people of northern European descent. It causes the gut to absorb more iron than the body needs, and over many years the extra iron can build up in the liver, heart, pancreas and joints. Early signs are vague, such as tiredness, joint pain and low mood, which is why it is often found late.
This test looks at the HFE gene for the variants most strongly linked to the condition, chiefly C282Y and H63D. You inherit one copy of the gene from each parent, so the result shows whether you carry none, one or two copies of a variant. It describes an inherited tendency. It does not measure how much iron is in your body now.
The price includes the blood sample at our Chiswick clinic, analysis at the Randox accredited laboratory, a practitioner review of your result and a GP feedback report on request.
Who it is for
- A parent, brother or sister has been diagnosed with haemochromatosis.
- Your ferritin or transferrin saturation has come back raised.
- You have ongoing tiredness and joint pain, particularly in the knuckles, and want a fuller picture.
- You have been told you carry one HFE variant and would like your status confirmed.
- Your GP has suggested genetic testing after an iron blood test.
Understanding your result
Two copies of C282Y carries the highest risk of iron overload, yet many people with this result never develop serious problems, so it is always read alongside iron studies and your health history. One copy usually makes you a carrier, which rarely causes overload on its own. Some combinations, such as one C282Y and one H63D, carry a smaller risk. A negative result does not remove all risk, because rarer genes and other causes can also lead to high iron.
Genetic results also have meaning for your family, and they are best discussed with a genetic counsellor or specialist as well as your practitioner. Where overload is confirmed, NHS treatment is usually regular removal of blood, which is simple and effective when started early. Your result is a prompt for discussion, not a diagnosis.
Preparing for your test
No fasting is needed for the genetic test, and your genes are not affected by food, medicines or the time of day. If you would like iron studies at the same visit, those are best taken in the morning, and we confirm any preparation when you book.
Genetics and current iron levels answer different questions, so many people pair this with our iron and ferritin tests. A liver function test can also be useful where iron is raised. See every blood test and price in Chiswick.
Questions
How much is a haemochromatosis genetic test in Chiswick?
The Haemochromatosis Genetic Test costs £119 at Omnia Lifestyle in Chiswick. This covers your blood sample, accredited laboratory analysis, a practitioner review and a GP feedback report on request.
Do I need to repeat this test?
No. Your genes do not change, so one result lasts for life. Iron levels can change, so those may be checked periodically if you carry a variant.
Should my family be tested?
If you have two copies of a variant, NHS guidance suggests close relatives, particularly brothers and sisters, may wish to consider testing. A genetic counsellor can help you talk this through.
Can I have high iron without the gene?
Yes. Inflammation, liver conditions, alcohol and frequent transfusions can all raise ferritin, so a raised iron result needs investigating whatever your genes show.
