Neonatal hemochromatosis: a case report.

Hemochromatosis is the excess accumulation of iron in tissue affecting a variety of organ systems leading to hepatic fibrosis and multiorgan system failure. When excess iron accumulation occurs in utero, as with neonatal hemochromatosis, the infant may be stillborn or present with advanced, overwhelming liver disease. Hepatic failure in the newborn encompasses a wide variety of disease entities, and formulation of a differential diagnosis presents a challenge for the clinician. This article reviews one case of neonatal hemochromatosis that was diagnosed and successfully treated. Iron metabolism and overload are discussed, as well as clinical manifestations, current treatment, and the potential for prenatal diagnosis in the future.