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Iron Metabolism Panel (Serum/Plasma)

Published: August 9, 2026Updated: August 17, 2026

This test measures key blood markers related to iron storage, transport, and utilization in your body, often used to assess iron deficiency or excess.

Quick summary

["Helps diagnose iron-related health concerns by checking iron levels and how your body processes it."]

Medically reviewed by WellAlly Editorial TeamLast reviewed August 17, 2026Editorial policy

Key facts at a glance

LOINC
72068-0
Short code
IRONPANEL
Synonyms
—
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
Method
esrd
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

What This Test Measures

The iron panel typically includes tests for iron itself, ferritin (a protein that stores iron), total iron-binding capacity (TIBC), and transferrin (a protein that carries iron in the blood). These help evaluate iron availability and risk of deficiency or overload.

Why It Matters

Iron is essential for making hemoglobin (the protein in red blood cells that carries oxygen). Low iron can lead to anemia, fatigue, or weakness, while high iron levels may cause damage to organs like the liver or heart.

Common Conditions Evaluated

This panel is often ordered to diagnose iron deficiency anemia, hemochromatosis (iron overload), or other conditions affecting iron metabolism, such as chronic diseases or malabsorption disorders.

Sample Collection and Preparation

Blood is drawn from a vein in your arm and sent to a lab. Serum or plasma (the liquid part of blood) is used for testing. No special preparation is needed, but fasting may be required for some components of the panel.

Reference range

NCBI: Serum Iron Male 65-180; Female 50-170 µg/dLN/A

Specimen: serum

Fasting for 12 hours preferred. Iron supplements should be stopped 24 hours before if possible.

Clinical interpretation

How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.

Clinical Significance

Short name

Iron Panel

Frequently asked questions

What does my iron panel result mean?
Results help your healthcare provider determine if you have iron deficiency, iron overload, or another iron-related issue. They may also check for underlying causes like poor diet, bleeding, or genetic disorders. Always discuss your results with your doctor for personalized interpretation.
Can I eat or drink anything before this test?
Check with your doctor or lab about fasting requirements. Some tests (like ferritin) may be done on an empty stomach, while others may allow light snacks or water. Avoid alcohol and heavy meals before testing to get accurate results.
How long will it take to get my results?
Results can vary by lab. Some tests may be available within days, while others may take a few weeks. Your doctor will contact you once results are ready, usually within the timeframe specified by your healthcare provider.
  1. 1
    MedlinePlus — Laboratory TestsSource
  2. 2
    Lab Tests OnlineSource
  3. 3
    Mayo Clinic — Tests & ProceduresSource

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.

Medical Disclaimer

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