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Iron (Serum) Concentration

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

This test measures the amount of iron present in your blood serum, which helps assess iron stores and potential deficiencies or excesses.

Quick summary

["Iron levels can indicate whether you may have anemia or iron overload."]

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

Key facts at a glance

LOINC
44867-0
Short code
Iron Fld Ql Other Stn
Synonyms
Iron Fld Ql Other 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
xxx-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, weakness, or if they suspect iron deficiency anemia, hemochromatosis (iron overload), or other blood disorders. It may also be part of routine check-ups for certain groups at higher risk.

What to Expect Before the Test

No special preparation is usually needed. You may be asked to fast for 8–12 hours before the test if it’s part of a broader metabolic panel, but this is not always required for iron alone. Bring any medications or supplements you take regularly to discuss with your provider.

How the Test Is Performed

A blood sample is drawn from a vein in your arm by a healthcare professional. The blood is then separated to analyze the iron content in the serum portion.

What the Results Mean

Results help determine whether your iron stores are adequate, low, or high. Low levels may suggest anemia or poor absorption, while high levels could indicate conditions like hemochromatosis or excessive intake.

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.

◆Associated findings1

Short name

Serum Iron

Frequently asked questions

What causes low iron levels?
Low iron levels can result from dietary deficiencies, chronic blood loss (e.g., heavy periods, gastrointestinal bleeding), poor absorption (e.g., celiac disease), or increased demand (e.g., pregnancy). Certain medications or medical conditions may also play a role.
What causes high iron levels?
High iron levels are often due to genetic conditions like hemochromatosis, excessive iron supplements, or repeated blood transfusions. Rarely, certain medications or liver diseases can contribute.
How often should I get this test?
Your provider will determine frequency based on your health status, symptoms, and risk factors. For example, pregnant women, individuals with anemia history, or those with hemochromatosis may need more frequent monitoring.
  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