Hereditary Hemochromatosis and Exacerbation of Psychiatric Manifestations Following Therapeutic Phlebotomy Sessions: A Case Report

Hereditary hemochromatosis, characterized by iron overload, is well known for its systemic effects; however, psychiatric clinical manifestations are underreported. Previous research articles discussed the link between excessive iron accumulation and mood disorders that were resolved following therapeutic phlebotomy treatment. In this case study, we presented a unique case that revealed the emergence of mood disorders following phlebotomy sessions. Our aim is to explore the relationship between them. This case report describes a 24-year-old Caucasian male who was admitted to the hospital with severe depression and suicidal ideations along with poor insight and tangential thought process following a financial trauma. He was diagnosed with a Major Depressive Disorder based on the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders, 5th Edition (DSM-V). The patient reported a diagnosis of hereditary hemochromatosis in 2023 and has received two phlebotomy treatments since then. After the second phlebotomy session, he experienced worsening depressive symptoms (passive suicidal ideations); his blood tests revealed normal iron and ferritin levels on the 5th day of admission. He had been taking Escitalopram and Lamotrigine over the past six months