Hepatic Iron Index (HII) from Liver Tissue
This test measures the amount of iron stored in your liver tissue, which helps assess iron overload in the liver. It’s often used in patients with conditions like hemochromatosis.
["This test helps identify liver iron buildup that may require medical evaluation or treatment."]
Key facts at a glance
- LOINC
- 49061-5
- Short code
- Hepatic iron index Liver-Rto
- Synonyms
- Hepatic iron index Liver-Rto
- Category
- chemistry
- Sample
- serum
- Container
- Red-top tube (SST)
- Units
- N/A
- Ref low
- 60
- Ref high
- 170
- Fasting
- false
- Population
- adult
- Sex
- all
- Age range
- 18–65 years
- CPT
- 83540
- Specimen volume
- 5 mL
- Stability
- Room temperature: 4h, Refrigerated: 24h, Frozen: 7d
- Hemolysis max
- 500
- Lipemia max
- 1000
- Icterus max
- 500
- TAT
- 4–24 hours
- Order
- routine
Why This Test Is Done
Your healthcare provider may order this test if you have symptoms like fatigue, joint pain, or liver-related issues, or if you have a family history of iron overload disorders. It’s also used to monitor iron levels in people with conditions like hemochromatosis or thalassemia.
What to Expect Before the Test
You’ll likely need a small biopsy of your liver tissue, which is done under sedation. The procedure is quick but may cause mild discomfort afterward. Avoid alcohol and certain medications before the procedure as directed by your doctor.
What the Results Mean
The test result reflects the iron content in your liver tissue. Higher levels may indicate iron overload, which can strain your liver and other organs. Your doctor will interpret the results in the context of your overall health and symptoms.
Common Conditions Linked to This Test
This test is particularly useful for diagnosing or monitoring hemochromatosis (iron overload disorder), liver disease, or other conditions affecting iron metabolism. It helps guide treatment decisions, such as phlebotomy (bloodletting) or dietary changes.
Reference range
NCBI: Serum Iron Male 65-180; Female 50-170 µg/dLN/A
No special preparation required. Avoid fatty meals before the test if possible.
Clinical interpretation
How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.
Chronic iron overload in the liver can lead to liver damage, inflammation, and increased risk of liver diseases like cirrhosis or cancer. Early detection through tests like the Hepatic Iron Index helps prevent complications by allowing timely medical intervention.
Short name
Hepatic Iron Index (HII)
Frequently asked questions
How is the Hepatic Iron Index test performed?
Is there any pain or discomfort during the test?
Can I eat or drink before the test?
Sources
- 1
- 2Lab Tests OnlineSource
- 3
Click any link to access the full source. PubMed Central (PMC) links provide free full-text access.
This information is for educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment.
This content is for general informational and educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the guidance of a qualified healthcare provider with any questions you have about a medical condition, and never disregard professional medical advice or delay seeking it because of something you read here.
If you think you may have a medical emergency, call your local emergency number or go to the nearest emergency department immediately.
Medically reviewed by WellAlly Editorial Team Last reviewed August 17, 2026. · Read our editorial policy