Which condition is characterized by an overload of iron in the body?

Hemochromatosis is the condition characterized by an overload of iron in the body. It is a genetic disorder causing excessive absorption of iron from the diet, leading to iron accumulation in various organs, particularly the liver, heart, and pancreas. This excess iron can cause serious health issues, including liver disease, diabetes, and heart problems, if not managed properly.

In contrast, anemia refers to a deficiency in red blood cells or hemoglobin, which can arise from various causes, but not specific to iron overload. Thalassemia is a genetic blood disorder that affects the production of hemoglobin and can lead to anemia but is not tied to iron overload specifically. Ferritin deficiency indicates a lack of stored iron in the body, which is the opposite of what is seen in hemochromatosis. These differences clarify why hemochromatosis is the correct response in identifying a condition related to the excessive iron accumulation in the body.