Hereditary Hemochromatosis is a genetic disorder that allows iron, a vital nutrient element used in hemoglobin, to build up in the bloodstream after red blood cells are disposed of. The iron instead builds up in the body's organs, slowly poisoning them. The excess iron also has other side effects that may or may not be present in any given patient. The build up occurs regardless of the amount of iron in a patient's diet. (see Iron toxicity for the other condition).