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Iron (Serum or Plasma Mass Concentration)

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 your risk of anemia or iron overload."]

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

Key facts at a glance

LOINC
50201-3
Short code
Iron sp4 SerPl-mCnc
Synonyms
Iron sp4 SerPl-mCnc
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 This Test Might Be Ordered

Your healthcare provider may recommend this test if you have symptoms like fatigue, pale skin, weakness, or unusual tiredness. They might also order it to check for conditions such as iron deficiency, hemochromatosis (iron overload), or other blood disorders.

What to Expect Before the Test

No special preparation is needed for this test. You may have a small needle inserted into your arm to draw blood. If you’re taking iron supplements, let your provider know, as this may affect results.

What the Results Mean

Results are typically reported as a numerical value representing the mass concentration of iron in your blood. While reference ranges vary by lab, lower than expected levels may indicate iron deficiency, and higher levels may suggest iron overload or other conditions.

Common Conditions Linked to Iron Levels

Low iron levels can cause anemia, where your body doesn’t have enough healthy red blood cells. High iron levels may lead to conditions like hemochromatosis, where too much iron builds up in organs over time.

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 causes low iron levels?
Low iron levels can result from poor diet (not enough iron-rich foods), heavy menstrual bleeding, pregnancy, or conditions like celiac disease that affect iron absorption. Chronic blood loss from injuries or gastrointestinal issues can also lead to deficiency.
What causes high iron levels?
High iron levels are often linked to hemochromatosis, a genetic disorder where the body absorbs too much iron. Overuse of iron supplements or repeated blood transfusions can also raise iron levels. Liver disease or certain medications may contribute as well.
How often should I get this test?
Your provider will determine how often you need this test based on your health history, symptoms, and risk factors. For example, people with hemochromatosis may need regular monitoring, while others may only need it if they show signs of iron-related issues.
  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