Hemosiderin

Hemosiderin is a pigmented substance that forms when the body breaks down excess iron, especially after bleeding or blood vessel damage. It is a stored form of iron within cells, mainly in tissues such as the liver, spleen, or skin. When blood leaks into tissues, red blood cells degrade, releasing iron, which is then stored as hemosiderin. This pigment appears as brown or yellow-brown deposits and can indicate past bleeding or iron overload conditions. While hemosiderin itself is not harmful, its presence can help doctors assess blood loss or iron-related issues in the body.