Iron (Serum or Plasma Mass Concentration)
This test measures the amount of iron present in your blood, typically drawn from a vein. Iron is an essential mineral that helps carry oxygen in your red blood cells.
["Iron levels help check for deficiencies or excesses that could affect your health."]
Key facts at a glance
- LOINC
- 87471-9
- Short code
- Iron Spec-mCnc
- Synonyms
- Iron Spec-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 doctor may recommend this test if you have symptoms like fatigue, pale skin, weakness, or unusual tiredness. It could also be done to diagnose conditions like anemia or to monitor iron overload in certain genetic disorders.
What to Expect Before the Test
You may be asked to fast for a few hours before the test, but this isn’t always required. Bring any medications you’re currently taking, as some can affect results. Avoid smoking or drinking alcohol for at least 30 minutes before the draw.
During the Test
A healthcare professional will insert a small needle into a vein in your arm to collect a blood sample. You may feel a brief pinch, but it usually doesn’t cause significant discomfort. The process takes just a few minutes.
After the Test
You can usually resume your normal activities immediately. Apply gentle pressure to the site to stop any bleeding, and check the area for signs of infection, such as redness or swelling, over the next few days.
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 can lead to iron deficiency anemia, which may cause fatigue, weakness, and pale skin. High iron levels can indicate conditions like hemochromatosis or excessive intake. Monitoring iron levels helps prevent complications and guides treatment decisions.
Short name
Iron Level
Frequently asked questions
How long does it take to get results?
Can I eat or drink before this test?
Does this test require any special preparation beyond 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