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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 identify potential deficiencies or excesses.

Quick summary

["Iron levels can affect energy, anemia risk, and overall health."]

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

Key facts at a glance

LOINC
10760-7
Short code
Iron Tiss Gomori Stn
Synonyms
Iron Tiss Gomori Stn
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
Method
gomori-stain
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 levels) or iron overload (high levels), especially if you have symptoms like fatigue, pale skin, or unusual tiredness. It can also be used during pregnancy, before surgeries, or to monitor conditions like anemia or hemochromatosis.

What Does a Low or High Iron Level Mean?

Low iron levels may indicate anemia, poor diet, blood loss, or conditions like celiac disease or malabsorption. High iron levels could suggest hemochromatosis (iron overload) or excessive intake. Neither result alone is diagnostic; they’re often part of a broader evaluation.

How Is This Test Performed?

A blood sample is drawn from a vein in your arm. The serum portion is separated and tested for iron content using a specialized laboratory method, typically an enzymatic or colorimetric assay.

What Are Common Symptoms to Watch For?

Symptoms of iron deficiency may include fatigue, weakness, pale skin, shortness of breath, or brittle nails. Symptoms of iron overload can include joint pain, liver issues, or diabetes-like symptoms, though these are less common without testing.

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

Frequently asked questions

Is iron deficiency common?
Yes, iron deficiency is one of the most common nutrient deficiencies worldwide, especially in women of childbearing age, pregnant individuals, and those with chronic blood loss (e.g., heavy periods or gastrointestinal issues). Iron overload is rarer but can be serious if untreated, affecting organs like the liver and heart.
What conditions might require repeated iron testing?
Conditions like anemia (especially iron-deficient), hemochromatosis (genetic iron overload), chronic kidney disease, or certain cancers may require ongoing monitoring of iron levels. Your provider will guide you based on your specific situation.
Can diet or supplements affect iron test results?
Yes, certain foods (like vitamin C-rich items) or supplements (iron or multivitamins) can temporarily affect iron absorption or test results. If you’re taking supplements, discuss timing with your provider to avoid interference.
  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