IRON PROFILE

Serum Iron Studies Basic

Also known as: Iron serum, Iron indices, Iron profile

What is the purpose of this test?

• Measures the amount of iron and iron-binding proteins in the blood.

• Detects conditions associated with iron deficiency or iron overload.

• Evaluates the body's iron status, including iron levels and the ability to transport and store iron.

• Helps diagnose iron deficiency anemia, hemochromatosis, and other iron metabolism disorders.

When does one need to get this test done?

• If you experience symptoms of abnormal iron levels such as pale skin, fatigue, headaches, weakness, joint pain, and abdominal pain.

• As a follow-up to routine tests or during anemia therapy.

Pre-test information

• Overnight fasting is preferred but not mandatory.

• Avoid iron supplements for at least 24 hours prior to sample collection.

• Inform your doctor about any medications, especially iron supplements.

Report delivery TAT

• Get reports within 12hours.

Home visit

• Yes; free home blood sample collection within 60 minutes of booking.

Sample type

• Blood

Components

• Serum Iron: Measures blood iron levels.

• Normal values: Male: 49 - 181 μg/dL; Female: 37 - 170 μg/dL

• Total Iron-Binding Capacity (TIBC): Gauges iron's binding capacity to blood proteins.

• Normal values: Male: 261 - 462 μg/dL; Female: 265 - 497 μg/dL

• Transferrin: Assesses the protein responsible for iron transport in the blood.

• Normal range: 206 - 381 mg/dL

• Transferrin Saturation: Ratio of serum iron levels to TIBC or transferrin levels.

• Normal range: 16 - 50%

What diseases can this test detect?

• Iron deficiency anemia

• Iron overload disorders (such as hemochromatosis)

• Other conditions affecting iron metabolism