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Iron, Serum or Plasma Concentration

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

This test measures the amount of iron present in your blood, which is important for making healthy red blood cells and preventing anemia.

Quick summary

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

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

Key facts at a glance

LOINC
14798-3
Short code
Iron SerPl-sCnc
Synonyms
Iron SerPl-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 to check for conditions like iron deficiency (low iron levels) or hemochromatosis (too much iron in the body). It can also be used to monitor treatment for anemia or iron overload.

What Does a Low or High Iron Level Mean?

Low iron levels may indicate anemia, poor diet, blood loss, or malabsorption issues. High iron levels could suggest hemochromatosis, excessive supplements, or repeated blood transfusions.

How Is the Test Performed?

A blood sample is drawn from a vein, usually in your arm. The sample is then sent to a lab for testing using a method like immunoassay or chemiluminescent immunoassay to measure iron concentration.

What Are Common Causes of Abnormal Results?

Causes of low iron include poor nutrition, chronic blood loss (e.g., heavy periods, digestive issues), or increased demand (e.g., pregnancy). Causes of high iron include genetic disorders, excessive intake, or repeated blood transfusions.

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 if my iron level is outside the normal range?
If your iron level is low, your doctor may recommend dietary changes, iron supplements, or further tests to identify the cause. If high, they may suggest reducing iron intake or investigating underlying conditions like hemochromatosis.
How often should I get this test?
Your doctor will determine the frequency based on your health status, symptoms, and medical history. Regular monitoring may be needed if you have conditions like anemia or hemochromatosis.
Does diet affect iron test results?
Yes, diet can influence iron levels. High intake of iron-rich foods or supplements may temporarily raise results, while certain foods (like calcium or tannins) can interfere with absorption. Follow your doctor’s advice on timing for testing.
  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