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Iron, Total Serum

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

This test measures the amount of iron present in your blood serum, which helps assess iron stores and potential deficiencies or overloads.

Quick summary

["Iron levels help diagnose or monitor iron deficiency anemia or hemochromatosis."]

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

Key facts at a glance

LOINC
39778-6
Short code
Iron/TIBC SerPl-sRto
Synonyms
Iron/TIBC SerPl-sRto
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 to check for iron deficiency (low iron levels), which can cause fatigue, weakness, or pale skin. They might also evaluate iron overload (high iron levels), which can lead to organ damage if untreated. This test can also be part of routine blood work or screening for conditions like anemia or certain blood disorders.

What Does the Result Mean?

Results are not provided with specific numeric ranges here, as they vary by lab and individual health. Your results will be interpreted by your healthcare provider based on your overall health, symptoms, and other test results. Abnormally low or high levels may prompt further testing or treatment.

Common Reasons for Testing

Common reasons include diagnosing iron deficiency anemia, checking for hemochromatosis (iron overload), monitoring iron therapy, or evaluating unexplained fatigue or weakness.

Sample Collection and Preparation

This test requires a blood sample drawn from a vein in your arm. You may be asked to fast for a few hours before the test, but this is not always necessary. Avoid eating or drinking anything except water for 8–12 hours before the draw if instructed by your provider.

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

Total Iron Serum

Frequently asked questions

What Are My Next Steps If My Results Are Abnormal?
If your iron levels are low, your doctor may recommend dietary changes, iron supplements, or further testing to determine the cause. If levels are high, they may suggest lifestyle adjustments, blood donation, or monitoring to prevent complications. Always follow your healthcare provider’s guidance based on your specific results and medical history.
How Often Should I Get This Test?
Frequency depends on your health status. People with iron deficiency anemia may need regular monitoring, while those with hemochromatosis may need periodic checks to manage iron levels safely. Your provider will determine the best schedule for you.
Can I Eat or Drink Anything Before the Test?
Some labs may ask you to fast for a few hours before drawing blood, but this is not always required. Always follow your healthcare provider’s instructions or the lab’s specific guidelines to ensure accurate results.
  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