hemochromatosis /hē′mōkrō′mətō″sis, hem′-/ [Gk, haima, blood, chroma, color, osis, condition] , an inherited disease of iron metabolism, characterized by excess iron deposits throughout the body. Hepatomegaly, skin pigmentation, diabetes mellitus, and cardiac failure may occur. Multiple phlebotomies are required to deplete excess iron. Also spelled haemochromatosis. Compare hemosiderosis. See also iron metabolism, siderosis, thalassemia.
