The Iron test measures the level of iron in the blood. Iron is essential for producing hemoglobin, which helps red blood cells transport oxygen throughout the body. This test helps diagnose iron deficiency anemia, iron overload disorders (such as hemochromatosis), and monitor iron levels in various medical conditions.

Risk Assessment

The test evaluates:

1. Iron Deficiency:

   • Causes: Poor diet, blood loss, pregnancy, or malabsorption disorders.
   • Symptoms: Fatigue, weakness, pale skin, brittle nails.

2. Iron Overload (Hemochromatosis):

   • Causes: Genetic conditions or excessive iron intake.
   • Symptoms: Joint pain, fatigue, organ damage.

3. Other Conditions:

   • Chronic illnesses, inflammation, or liver disease.

Normal Range

Ranges may vary slightly by lab and patient demographics. Typical ranges:

• Serum Iron: 60–170 µg/dL (10–30 µmol/L).
• Total Iron Binding Capacity (TIBC): 240–450 µg/dL (43–81 µmol/L).
• Transferrin Saturation: 20–50% (male), 15–50% (female).
• Ferritin: 24–336 ng/mL (male), 11–307 ng/mL (female).

Interpretation

1. Low Serum Iron:

   • Indicates iron deficiency, chronic disease, or acute bleeding.

2. High Serum Iron:

   • Suggests iron overload, liver disorders, or hemolytic anemia.

3. Elevated TIBC/Low Transferrin Saturation:

   • Seen in iron deficiency anemia.

4. Low TIBC/High Transferrin Saturation:

   • Associated with hemochromatosis or chronic disease.

5. Ferritin:

   • Low: Iron deficiency.
   • High: Inflammation, liver disease, or iron overload.

Sample Type

• Specimen Required: Venous blood.
• Preparation: Fasting for 8–12 hours may be required (to ensure accurate results).