Iron Studies Test
About Iron Studies (Iron) Test
Iron tests are performed to check the level of iron in the body by measuring various forms of iron in the blood. Iron is an essential micronutrient needed in the body for making red blood cells (RBCs), which carry oxygen from the lungs to the rest of the body. Iron is also vital for healthy muscles, bone marrow, and organ function. Higher or lower iron levels can lead to serious health problems like cirrhosis and anaemia.
Functions of iron in the body
- Component of haemoglobin which is a type of protein found in red blood cells
- Part of myoglobin which is a protein that carries and stores oxygen specifically in muscle tissue.
- Important for brain development and growth in children
- Required for normal production and function of various hormonesÂ
Iron tests are performed during routine check-ups to detect anaemia caused due to iron deficiency. These tests are used to monitor iron deficiency or overload in the body and to analyse the capacity of the blood to transport iron. Thus, early detection and treatment of iron deficiency or overload can prevent serious health conditions.
Symptoms of low iron levels
Pale skin
Fatigue
Dizziness
Shortness of breath
Rapid heartbeat
Symptoms of high iron levels
Joint pain
Stomach pain
Low energy
Weight loss
What do iron studies measure?
Different types of iron tests included in the iron studies are:
Serum iron test:
-
Used to measure the levels of iron present in the blood.
Transferrin test:
-
Used to measure the levels of transferrin present in the blood; transferrin is a protein that transports iron throughout the body
Total iron-binding capacity (TIBC):
-
Used to measure how well iron attaches to transferrin and other proteins in the blood. It is another way to measure how well the body transports iron.
Ferritin blood test:
-
Used to measure how much iron is stored in the body. Ferritin is a protein that stores iron, Â iron is essential for making healthy red blood cells
Transferrin saturation:
-
Used to find the amount of iron bound to the protein transferrin.
Other names for iron tests
-
Fe tests, iron indices. Most or all of these tests are ordered at the same time.
Who should get iron studies test?
An iron studies test is recommended for individuals shown to have anaemia or any problem with their red blood cells after a full blood count test. Doctors will also suggest an iron test if there is too much iron in the body. Iron tests are advised to determine:
Low levels of iron (anaemia)
High high levels of iron (hemochromatosis) This is a rare genetic disorder that causes too much iron to build up in the body
If treatments for iron deficiency (low iron levels) or excess iron (high iron levels) are working
Test preparation
Iron studies may require fasting for up to 12 hours before the test, only drinking water during this time is recommended. Certain medicines may affect the results of this test, therefore ask your doctor for details about pre-test preparations, and make sure to follow instructions closely.
Interpretation of results
|
Parameters |
Normal iron studies test values |
|
        Iron |
60 to 170 mcg/dL (or) 10.74 to 30.43 micromol/L |
|
Total iron binding capacity (TIBC) |
240 to 450 mcg/dL (or) 42.96 to 80.55 micromol/L |
|
Transferrin saturation |
20% to 50% |
Â
The above values are common measurements for results of these tests. Normal value ranges may vary slightly among different laboratories. Talk to your healthcare provider to understand your specific test results.
Higher than normal iron level may be a sign of:
- Too much iron in the body (hemochromatosis)
- Anaemia due to red blood cells being destroyed quickly (haemolytic anaemia)
- Liver tissue death
- Inflammation of the liver (hepatitis)
- Iron poisoning
Lower than normal level may be a sign of:
- Long-term digestive tract bleeding
- Heavy menstrual bleeding
- Intestinal conditions causing poor absorption of iron
- Iron deficiency in diet
- Types of anaemia
- Inherited blood disorder causing the body to make fewer RBCs (Thalassemia)
FAQs
What happens during an iron test?
A blood sample is collected from a vein in your arm using a small needle. This procedure usually takes less than five minutes.
What is the turnaround time (TAT) for the results of an iron test?
You will usually get the reports within 6 hours after the collection of the blood sample.
Should I be concerned if my iron test level is abnormal?
If your iron test results reveal that you have high or low levels of iron, it might be because of a medical condition. Other factors, like diet and inflammatory health conditions, can also influence your iron levels. If you have an abnormal result, consult your healthcare provider, who may order additional tests to determine the cause of your abnormal iron levels.
Who are at high risk for anaemia?
There are certain groups of people that are at high risk of being affected by anaemia; for example, pregnant or breastfeeding women, children in puberty stage, vegans and patients having chronic diseases, like stomach ulcers or cancer, etc.
How often should I be checking my iron levels?
The frequency of testing and the type of iron test depends on the severity of your iron deficiency/overload.
Based on your iron test results, your doctor will design an appropriate treatment plan and recommend regular testing to monitor your iron levels.
Look out for the common symptoms of iron deficiency/overload and consult a doctor.
Pregnant women are at a higher risk for iron deficiency and your doctor may recommend taking multiple iron tests throughout your pregnancy to make sure your iron levels are normal.
Even if you have normal iron levels, it is suggested to get your iron levels tested every few years or so.
Related tests
Tests At Lupin Diagnostics