Iron (Serum or Plasma) Mass Concentration
This test measures the amount of iron present in your blood serum or plasma, which helps assess iron stores and potential deficiencies or excesses.
["Iron levels help identify anemia, iron overload, or nutritional deficiencies."]
Key facts at a glance
- LOINC
- 2504-9
- Short code
- Iron Ur-mCnc
- Synonyms
- Iron Ur-mCnc
- Category
- chemistry
- Sample
- urine
- Container
- Sterile urine container
- Units
- N/A
- Ref low
- 60
- Ref high
- 170
- Fasting
- false
- Population
- adult
- Sex
- all
- Age range
- 18–65 years
- CPT
- 83540
- Specimen volume
- 10 mL
- Stability
- Room temperature: 2h, Refrigerated: 24h, Frozen: 7d
- Hemolysis max
- 0
- Lipemia max
- 0
- Icterus max
- 0
- TAT
- 4–24 hours
- Order
- routine
Why Is This Test Done?
Your healthcare provider may order this test to check for iron deficiency (which can cause fatigue, weakness, or pale skin) or iron overload (which may lead to organ damage). It’s often done when symptoms like unexplained fatigue, unusual tiredness, or signs of anemia appear. It can also be part of routine blood work or screening for conditions like hemochromatosis (iron overload) or hemochromatosis-related disorders.
What to Expect Before the Test
No special preparation is usually needed, but you may be asked to fast for 8–12 hours before the test if it’s part of a broader metabolic or liver evaluation. Bring any medications you’re taking, as some (like iron supplements) can affect results. If you’re pregnant, let your provider know—iron levels can vary during pregnancy.
During the Test
A healthcare professional will draw blood from a vein in your arm using a small needle. You may feel a slight pinch, but it’s usually over quickly. The blood sample is sent to a lab for analysis. The process takes about 15 minutes total.
What the Results Mean
Results are compared to standard ranges for your age, gender, and overall health. Low iron levels may indicate anemia or poor absorption, while very high levels could signal conditions like hemochromatosis or excessive intake. Your provider will discuss the results in the context of your symptoms and medical history.
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.
Iron levels are critical for red blood cell production and oxygen transport. Low iron can cause anemia, leading to fatigue, weakness, or shortness of breath. High iron levels may damage organs over time, especially in conditions like hemochromatosis. Regular monitoring is important for people with genetic risks or those who have had repeated blood transfusions.
Short name
Iron Level
Frequently asked questions
How often should I get this test?
What are common symptoms that might lead to this test?
Can I take iron supplements if my iron level is low?
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