Ferric Ferrocyanide Complex in Serum (Iron-Binding Capacity Test)
This test measures the amount of iron your body can bind to transferrin, a protein that carries iron in your blood. It helps assess iron availability and potential iron deficiency or overload conditions.
["Evaluates iron metabolism and identifies possible iron-related blood disorders."]
Key facts at a glance
- LOINC
- 92742-6
- Short code
- Iron BAL K Ferrocyanide Stn
- Synonyms
- Iron BAL K Ferrocyanide Stn
- 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
- potassium-ferrocyanide-stain
- 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 Might Be Ordered
Your healthcare provider may recommend this test if you have symptoms like fatigue, pale skin, or unusual tiredness, which could indicate iron deficiency. It may also be used to monitor iron levels in people with conditions like anemia, hemochromatosis, or those receiving iron supplements.
How the Test Works
A small blood sample is drawn, and the lab analyzes it to determine how much iron can bind to transferrin. This measurement reflects your body’s ability to transport iron, which can be affected by iron deficiency or excess.
Common Reasons for Testing
This test is often part of a broader evaluation for iron-related disorders, such as iron deficiency anemia or hemochromatosis. It may also be used to check iron status in patients with chronic diseases or those undergoing certain treatments.
What to Expect Before the Test
No special preparation is needed for this blood test. You may be asked to fast for a few hours before the draw, but this depends on your healthcare provider’s instructions. Wear comfortable clothing and plan for the test to be done at a healthcare facility.
Reference range
NCBI: Serum Iron Male 65-180; Female 50-170 µg/dLN/A
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.
Low levels of iron-binding capacity can suggest iron deficiency, where your body doesn’t have enough iron to produce healthy red blood cells. High levels may indicate conditions like hemochromatosis, where too much iron builds up in the body. This test helps guide treatment decisions, such as iron supplements or monitoring for iron overload.
Short name
Iron-binding capacity (ferric ferrocyanide test)
Frequently asked questions
How long does it take to get the results of this test?
Can I eat or drink anything before this test?
Is there any risk or discomfort associated with this blood 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