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Serum Iron Mass 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 in your body.

Quick summary

["Iron levels can indicate whether you have iron deficiency or excess iron."]

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

Key facts at a glance

LOINC
2497-6
Short code
Iron Hair-mCnt
Synonyms
Iron Hair-mCnt
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?

Doctors may order this test to check for iron deficiency anemia, which can cause fatigue, weakness, or pale skin. It may also be used to monitor iron overload conditions, such as hemochromatosis, or evaluate patients with unexplained symptoms like fatigue or weakness, especially if other causes have been ruled out.

What Does a Low or High Iron Level Mean?

Low iron levels may suggest insufficient dietary iron intake, chronic blood loss (e.g., from heavy periods or gastrointestinal bleeding), or conditions like celiac disease or malabsorption syndromes. High iron levels could indicate excessive iron absorption, genetic disorders like hemochromatosis, or repeated blood transfusions.

How Is This Test Performed?

A blood sample is drawn from a vein in your arm. The sample is sent to a lab where it is analyzed to determine the iron concentration in your serum.

What Are Common Symptoms to Watch For?

Symptoms of iron deficiency may include fatigue, pale skin, shortness of breath, dizziness, or brittle nails. Symptoms of iron overload may include joint pain, abdominal pain, or liver problems, though these can vary widely.

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

Iron Level

Frequently asked questions

What can cause false low or high iron test results?
False low results may occur if you recently donated blood, had a recent blood transfusion, or if your sample was improperly handled. False high results can happen if there was contamination during sample collection or processing.
Do I need to prepare for this test?
No special preparation is usually needed, but avoid heavy meals or caffeine before the test, as they may affect iron absorption and test results.
How long will it take to get my results?
Results are typically available within a few days to a week, depending on your lab’s processing schedule.
  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