Renal hemosiderosis involves deposition of hemosiderin in the renal tubules.
Mechanism: reabsorption of free hemoglobin in the proximal convoluted tubules with breakdown to form hemosiderin
Risk factors:
(1) hemolytic anemia (sickle cell disease, PNH, other)
(2) hemochromatosis
Grossly the kidneys may appear black or blue in severe disease.
The diagnosis made by showing iron in the renal tubules using an iron stain.
Ongoing renal hemosiderosis may progress to end-stage renal disease.
