Iron Overload (Noun)
Meaning
Pathology in which iron accumulates in the tissues; characterized by bronzed skin and enlarged liver and diabetes mellitus and abnormalities of the pancreas and the joints.
Classification
Nouns denoting natural processes.
Examples
- Iron overload is diagnosed using various tests including serum ferritin tests and liver biopsies in which excessive iron deposition can be observed.
- Hemochromatosis is a hereditary disorder that can lead to iron overload in the body, particularly if left untreated.
- Iron overload has been linked to various health complications including cirrhosis of the liver and heart problems.
- Symptoms of iron overload may not appear until later in life, even for those with a genetic predisposition to accumulate excessive iron.
- Early diagnosis of iron overload is essential, as prompt treatment can help to reduce the risk of organ damage and other complications.