Iron (Serum or Plasma Mass Concentration)
This test measures the amount of iron present in your blood serum or plasma, which helps assess iron stores and identify deficiencies or excesses.
["Iron levels help diagnose or monitor iron-related health issues like anemia or hemochromatosis."]
Key facts at a glance
- LOINC
- 35214-6
- Short code
- Iron SerPl-msCnc
- Synonyms
- Iron SerPl-msCnc
- 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 if you have symptoms of iron deficiency, such as fatigue, pale skin, or weakness, or if you have conditions like anemia, gastrointestinal bleeding, or excessive blood donation. It may also be used to check for iron overload in conditions like hemochromatosis or during pregnancy to ensure proper fetal development.
What to Expect Before the Test
No special preparation is usually needed, but you may be asked to fast for 8–12 hours before the test if it involves a blood draw. Avoid taking iron supplements or certain medications (like antacids) for 24 hours before testing, as they can affect results.
What Happens During the Test?
A healthcare professional will draw blood from a vein in your arm. The blood sample is then sent to a lab for analysis using a method like chemiluminescence or immunoassay to measure iron concentration.
What Do the Results Mean?
Results are compared to reference ranges, but exact values can vary by lab. Low iron levels may indicate anemia or poor absorption, while high levels may signal iron overload or certain medical conditions. Your provider will interpret results in the context of your symptoms and medical history.
Reference range
NCBI: Serum Iron Male 65-180; Female 50-170 µg/dLN/A
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.
Low iron levels (hypoferremia) are often linked to iron deficiency anemia, which can cause fatigue, weakness, and impaired cognitive function. High iron levels (hyperferremia) may indicate hemochromatosis, liver disease, or repeated blood transfusions. Monitoring iron levels helps prevent complications and guides treatment, such as dietary changes or medication.
Short name
Iron Level
Frequently asked questions
How long does it take to get my results?
Can I take iron supplements before or after this test?
Does this test require fasting?
Sources
- 1
- 2Lab Tests OnlineSource
- 3
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.
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