Hemosiderin is a brownish-yellow pigment that forms when the body stores excess iron. It is primarily found in the liver, spleen, and bone marrow. When red blood cells break down, iron is released and can be stored as hemosiderin if there is more iron than the body needs. This storage helps prevent iron toxicity. Hemosiderin is often identified through tissue samples during medical examinations. High levels of hemosiderin can indicate conditions like hemochromatosis, where the body absorbs too much iron, leading to potential organ damage. Monitoring hemosiderin levels can help manage iron-related disorders effectively.