Test Details: Mutations in the HFE (hemochromatosis) gene cause hereditary hemochromatosis, an iron overload disorder that is hallmarked by excessive accumulation of iron in parenchymal organs. This can cause severe liver damage (cirrhosis), joint pains, changes in skin coloration, heart failure, diabetes mellitus, sexual dysfunction, and rarely, thyroid disease or liver cancer. Early identification and treatment of hemochromatosis can prevent complications.