Correlation of liver density by magnetic resonance imaging and hepatic iron levels. A noninvasive means to exclude homozygous hemochromatosis.

The diagnosis of hemochromatosis requires liver biopsy and the quantification of hepatic iron. Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) of the liver shows a characteristic decrease in tissue signal intensity in iron overload states, but its role in the diagnosis of hemochromatosis has not been fully delineated. Forty-three patients (31 men and 12 women) were referred for the evaluation of hemochromatosis based upon a fasting transferrin saturation > 55% and/or a serum ferritin > 400 ng/ml in males or > 300 ng/ml in females.