Health Encyclopedia

Serum iron

Definition

Serum iron is a test that measures how much iron is in your blood.

Alternative Names

Fe+2; Ferric ion; Fe++; Ferrous ion; Iron - serum

How the test is performed

Blood is drawn from a vein, usually from the inside of the elbow or the back of the hand. The puncture site is cleaned with a substance that prevents bacteria (antiseptic). An elastic band is placed around the upper arm to apply pressure and restrict blood flow through the vein. This causes veins below the band to fill with blood.

A needle is inserted into the vein, and the blood is collected in an air-tight vial or a tube attached to the needle (syringe). The band is removed to let blood flow normally. Once the blood has been collected, the needle is removed, and the site is covered to stop any bleeding.

In an infant or young child:

The area is cleaned with antiseptic and then a sharp needle or a small knife (lancet) is inserted. The blood may be collected in a small glass tube (pipette), on a slide, onto a test strip, or into a small container. Cotton or a bandage may be placed on the puncture site if bleeding continues.

How to prepare for the test

These is no special preparation for this test.

How the test will feel

When the needle is inserted to draw blood, some people feel moderate pain. Others will feel only a prick or stinging sensation. Afterward, there may be some throbbing.

Why the test is performed

Your doctor may order this test if you have signs of low iron (iron deficiency).

Normal Values

Iron: 60-170 mcg/dl
TIBC: 240-450 mcg/dl
Transferrin saturation: 20-50%

Note: mcg/dl = micrograms per deciliter

What abnormal results mean

Higher-than-normal levels may mean:

Hemochromatosis
Hemolysis
Hemolytic anemias
Hemosiderosis
Liver tissue death (hepatic necrosis)
Hepatitis
Vitamin B-12 deficiency, vitamin B-6 deficiency
Iron poisoning
Many blood transfusions

Lower-than-normal levels may mean:

Other conditions under which the test may be performed:

Anemia of chronic disease

What the risks are

Excess bleeding
Fainting or feeling light-headed
Blood under the skin (hematoma)
Infection
Many punctures to find veins

Special considerations

Drugs that can increase iron include chloramphenicol, estrogens, oral birth control, and methyldopa.

Drugs that can lower iron include cholestyramine, chloramphenicol, colchicine, deferoxamine, methicillin, allopurinol, and testosterone.

Veins and arteries vary in size from one patient to another and from one side of the body to the other. Getting a blood sample from some people may be more difficult than from others.

References

Heeney MM, Andrews NC. Iron homeostasis and inherited iron overload disorders: an overview. Hematol Oncol Clin North Am. December 2004;18:1379-1403.

Pieracci FM, Barie PS. Diagnosis and management of iron-related anemias in critical illness. Crit Care Med. July 2006;34:1898-1905.

Review Date:3/13/2007
Reviewed By:Mark Levin, M.D., Hematologist and Oncologist, Newark, NJ. Review provided by VeriMed Healthcare Network.

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