HEMOCHROMATOSIS

also spelled haemochromatosis, also called iron storage disease, or bronze diabetes inborn metabolic defect characterized by an increased absorption of iron, which accumulates in body tissues. The clinical manifestations include skin pigmentation, diabetes, enlargement of the spleen and liver, heart failure, and general weakness and lassitude. In males, the symptoms are usually noted after 35 years of age, and in females, after menopause, when iron is no longer lost through menstruation and pregnancy. Treatment consists of the removal of blood at regular intervals to decrease the concentration of body iron.