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Iron (Serum or Plasma Phenotype by Electrophoresis)

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

This test measures the amount of iron bound to specific proteins in your blood, often used to assess iron storage and distribution. It helps identify conditions related to iron metabolism or protein abnormalities.

Quick summary

["This test helps diagnose potential iron-related disorders or protein-related conditions through blood analysis."]

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

Key facts at a glance

LOINC
61522-9
Short code
Iron PhenX
Synonyms
Iron PhenX
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
phenx
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

What This Test Measures

The test detects iron bound to different proteins in your serum or plasma, including haptoglobin (which transports free iron) and other iron-binding globulins. Variations can indicate conditions like hemochromatosis (iron overload), anemia, or certain protein disorders.

Why It’s Ordered

Your healthcare provider may order this test if you have symptoms like fatigue, weakness, or unexplained anemia, or if you have a family history of iron storage disorders. It may also be used to monitor treatment for conditions affecting iron metabolism.

Common Conditions Evaluated

This test can help identify issues such as iron overload (e.g., hemochromatosis), iron deficiency, or certain inherited protein disorders (e.g., alpha-thalassemia). It may also be part of broader evaluations for unexplained laboratory abnormalities.

Sample Collection and Preparation

A blood sample is drawn from a vein in your arm. The test analyzes the iron content bound to proteins in your serum or plasma. Results are compared to reference ranges for your age, sex, and health status.

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 Profile (Serum Electrophoresis)

Frequently asked questions

How does iron binding in this test differ from standard iron tests like serum iron or TIBC?
This test specifically evaluates iron distribution among proteins (e.g., haptoglobin, transferrin) rather than total iron or iron-binding capacity. Unlike standard iron panels, it focuses on qualitative protein-bound iron patterns, which can reveal subtle metabolic or genetic disorders.
What does an abnormal result mean for my iron levels?
An abnormal result may suggest an underlying condition affecting iron metabolism or protein synthesis, but it doesn’t directly indicate iron deficiency or overload alone. Your provider will interpret results alongside clinical symptoms, other tests, and patient history.
Can this test detect iron deficiency anemia?
No, this test alone cannot diagnose iron deficiency anemia. It may help identify protein-related disorders or iron distribution issues but is typically used alongside other tests (e.g., serum iron, ferritin) for comprehensive evaluation.
  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