Haemochromatosis.
Haemochromatosis is one of the most common inherited diseases in Caucasian populations. The disease is characterized by an inappropriately high rate of iron absorption, and excess iron is deposited in the liver, pancreas, heart and other organs of affected individuals. If untreated, cirrhosis of the liver can develop and result in premature death from complications of portal hypertension, hepatic failure or hepatocellular carcinoma.