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Iron, Serum or Plasma Concentration (Mass)

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

This test measures the amount of iron present in your blood, which is important for making hemoglobin—the protein in red blood cells that carries oxygen throughout your body.

Quick summary

["Iron levels help assess whether you have iron deficiency or iron overload."]

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

Key facts at a glance

LOINC
57028-3
Short code
Iron Liver-mCnt
Synonyms
Iron Liver-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?

Your healthcare provider may order this test to check for conditions like anemia (low red blood cells), excessive iron storage (hemochromatosis), or to monitor iron supplements if you have a history of iron-related issues.

What Does a Low or High Iron Level Mean?

Low iron levels may indicate anemia or poor absorption of iron from food. High levels could suggest iron overload, which can strain your organs over time.

How Is This Test Performed?

A blood sample is drawn from a vein in your arm. The sample is then sent to a lab for analysis to measure iron concentration.

What Are Common Causes of Abnormal Results?

Common causes of low iron include diet low in iron, heavy menstrual bleeding, pregnancy, or certain medical conditions like celiac disease. High iron levels may result from genetic disorders, excessive iron supplements, or repeated blood transfusions.

Reference range

NCBI: Serum Iron Male 65-180; Female 50-170 µg/dLN/A

Specimen: serum

No special preparation required. Avoid fatty meals before the test if possible.

Clinical interpretation

How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.

Iron levels are critical for preventing anemia and maintaining healthy red blood cells. Low levels can cause fatigue, weakness, and pale skin, while high levels may lead to organ damage if untreated. Regular monitoring is important for patients with known iron disorders.

Short name

Iron Level

Frequently asked questions

What does an iron level test tell me about my health?
It helps identify whether you have enough iron in your blood to support normal red blood cell production or if you’re at risk for iron-related health issues.
How often should I get this test?
Your doctor will determine the frequency based on your medical history, symptoms, and other health conditions. Follow-up tests may be needed if you’re taking iron supplements or have a history of iron-related disorders.
Can I eat or drink anything before this test?
Typically, you can eat and drink normally unless your doctor specifies otherwise. Some tests may require fasting, but this iron test does 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