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Iron (total) in serum or plasma

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

This test measures the amount of iron present in your blood, which is important for making red blood cells and maintaining energy levels.

Quick summary

["Iron levels help assess your risk for anemia or iron overload."]

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

Key facts at a glance

LOINC
29764-8
Short code
Iron Fld-sCnc
Synonyms
Iron Fld-sCnc
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 Is This Test Done?

Your doctor may order this test if you have symptoms like fatigue, pale skin, shortness of breath, or unusual tiredness. It can also help diagnose conditions like anemia (low red blood cells) or hemochromatosis (iron overload).

What to Expect Before the Test

No special preparation is needed. You’ll have a small needle inserted into your arm or vein to draw blood. It usually takes a few minutes. If you’re on blood thinners, let your doctor know before the test.

What the Results Mean

Results alone don’t diagnose a condition—they’re used alongside other tests and symptoms. Low iron may indicate anemia, while very high levels could suggest iron overload or other health issues.

Common Conditions Linked to Iron Levels

Low iron can cause anemia, which may lead to fatigue, weakness, or difficulty concentrating. High iron levels can strain your organs and increase risks for heart disease or diabetes.

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

Total Iron

Frequently asked questions

Your doctor may recommend follow-up tests if your iron levels are outside the expected range, such as checking for causes like bleeding, poor diet, or genetic disorders.
This test helps monitor iron status and guide treatment if needed, like iron supplements or dietary changes.
Is there a difference between serum and plasma for iron testing?
Yes, but the test measures the same iron content in both. Plasma is blood without clotting factors, while serum is blood after clotting. Your lab will specify which was used.
Can I eat or drink anything before this test?
Typically, you can eat and drink normally unless your doctor advises otherwise. Some tests may require fasting, but iron tests do not.
  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