[Resorption and biotransformation of model substances in primary idiopathic hemochromatosis (siderophilia)].

In 12 patients with primary idiopathic haemochromatosis absorption and biotransformation were measured by model substances. Aim of the investigation was the correlation of the biotransformation of the liver with the degree of liver injury and the clinical picture. We determined in patients and compared with control group: elimination of metamizol in urine, absorption and elimination of caffeine in serum, serum concentrations and elimination of sulfamethazin in urine, absorption of xylose, - In patients with haemochromatosis accompanied with slight liver damage only demethylation of metamizol was slackened. In patients with higher degree of liver damage the elimination of metamizol as well as of caffeine was decreased. Because of the high percentage of slow acetylators in the patient group metabolism of sulfamethazine is decreased. - There was no correlation between iron loading of the organism, absorption of xylose and biotransformation of the model substances.