hemochromatosis

[ hee-muh-kroh-muh-toh-sis, hem-uh- ]

noun

, Pathology.

1. a rare metabolic disorder characterized by a bronzed skin, cirrhosis, and severe diabetes, caused by the deposit in tissue, especially of the liver and pancreas, of hemosiderin and other pigments containing iron.

Other Words From

• he·mo·chro·ma·tot·ic [hee-moh-kroh-m, uh, -, tot, -ik, hem-oh-], adjective

Word History and Origins

Origin of hemochromatosis¹

First recorded in 1895–1900; hemo- + chromat- + -osis. The variant bronze diabetes was first recorded in 1885–90

Example Sentences

For instance, the inherited illness hemochromatosis can cause iron to build up in the organs.

From Science News For Students