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Serum Iron Concentration (Current Prescription Level)

Published: August 9, 2026Updated: August 16, 2026

This test measures the amount of iron present in your blood serum, which helps assess your body’s iron stores and overall iron status.

Quick summary

["Iron levels help doctors check for anemia or iron deficiency, especially if you’re taking iron supplements."]

Medically reviewed by WellAlly Editorial TeamLast reviewed August 16, 2026Editorial policy

Key facts at a glance

LOINC
72067-2
Short code
IRONPRESCRIPTIONCURRENT
Synonyms
—
Category
coagulation
Sample
serum
Container
Red-top tube (SST)
Units
N/A
Ref low
0.8
Ref high
1.2
Critical range
— – 5 N/A
Fasting
false
Population
adult
Sex
all
Age range
18–65 years
Method
esrd
CPT
83540
SNOMED
396252006
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 Might Be Ordered

Your doctor may request this test if you have symptoms like fatigue, pale skin, or unusual tiredness, or if you’re taking iron medications. It can also be used to monitor your iron levels while on treatment.

What to Expect Before the Test

No special preparation is needed, but you may be asked to fast for 8–12 hours before the test if it’s part of a metabolic panel. Bring any current medications or supplements to your appointment.

How the Test Is Performed

A blood sample is drawn from a vein, usually in your arm. The sample is sent to a lab to measure iron concentration using a standard analytical method.

What the Results Mean

Results help determine if your iron stores are adequate, low, or high. Abnormal levels may indicate conditions like anemia, hemochromatosis, or other iron-related disorders.

Reference range

INR: 0.8-1.2 (warfarin: 2.0-3.0)N/A

Specimen: serum

Inform your healthcare provider if you are taking blood thinners. No special preparation required.

Clinical interpretation

How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.

◆Associated findings1

Short name

Iron Level in Blood

Frequently asked questions

How long does it take to get results?
Results are typically available within 1–3 business days, depending on your lab’s processing time.
What does a low iron level mean?
A low iron level suggests you may have iron deficiency, which can cause anemia. Your doctor may recommend dietary changes, supplements, or further testing to identify the cause.
Can I eat or drink before this test?
If fasting is required (check with your lab), avoid food and liquids (except water) for 8–12 hours before drawing blood. If no fasting is needed, eat normally.
  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 16, 2026. · Read our editorial policy