Etymed
hemochromatosis
Definition
A condition characterized by excessive iron accumulation in the body, leading to organ damage
Clinical context
A 55-year-old man presents with fatigue, abdominal pain, and bronze-colored skin. Laboratory studies reveal elevated serum ferritin and transferrin saturation. He has a positive family history for similar symptoms. Physical examination reveals hepatomegaly and cardiac murmurs. The condition typically affects middle-aged adults and is associated with the HFE gene mutation.
Mnemonic
Hemochromatosis = 'Hem' for blood, 'chrom' for color (bronze skin), 'tosis' for overload - think 'Hemochromatosis: Too much iron, too much color'