Iron Total Test
Brief Description: The Iron Total test measures the total amount of iron in the blood, an essential mineral for various bodily functions such as oxygen transport, energy production, and DNA synthesis. This test provides crucial information about the body’s overall iron status.
Also Known As:
Serum Iron Test
Serum Fe Test
Iron Total Test
IBC Test
Iron Lab Test
Iron Blood Test
Collection Method: Blood Draw
Specimen Type: Serum
Test Preparation:
Patients should fast for 9-12 hours before the test.
Collection should be done in the morning.
When is an Iron Total test ordered?
Evaluation of Iron Deficiency:
To assess iron levels and diagnose iron deficiency anemia.
Symptoms prompting this test include fatigue, weakness, pale skin, and shortness of breath.
Monitoring Iron Replacement Therapy:
For individuals receiving iron supplementation or treatment for iron deficiency anemia.
Regular monitoring helps assess treatment effectiveness and guide dosing adjustments.
Investigation of Iron Overload:
To evaluate iron overload disorders, such as hereditary hemochromatosis.
High iron levels can affect various organs and require further investigation.
What does an Iron Total blood test check for?
Iron is vital for survival, being a key component of hemoglobin in red blood cells, which binds oxygen in the lungs and releases it throughout the body. This test measures the iron level in the blood’s liquid component, serum iron.
Low Iron Levels: Can cause anemia, leading to reduced production of microcytic and hypochromic red blood cells.
High Iron Levels: Can be hazardous, causing iron compounds to accumulate in tissues like the liver, heart, and pancreas.
Iron is absorbed from food and distributed by binding to transferrin, a liver protein. About 70% of iron is used in hemoglobin synthesis in red blood cells, with the rest stored as ferritin or hemosiderin in tissues, and small amounts used in other proteins like myoglobin and enzymes.
Signs of Iron Deficiency:
Insufficient intake, limited absorption, or increased dietary requirements (e.g., pregnancy, blood loss).
Signs of Iron Overload:
Excessive iron intake, genetic hemochromatosis, multiple blood transfusions, and other disorders.
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