hereditary hemochromatosis, an autosomal-recessive disorder of metabolism that involves the deposition of iron-containing pigments in the tissues. Iron accumulation is lifelong, with symptoms that include joint or abdominal pain, weakness, and fatigue appearing usually in the fifth or sixth decades of life. If untreated, the disorder may lead to bronzing of the skin, arthritis, diabetes, cirrhosis, or heart disease. It typically affects men more often than women. See also hemochromatosis.
