Serum iron test
What is a Serum Iron Test?
A serum iron test is a laboratory test done to measure the amount of iron in the serum. The test helps to evaluate a person’s iron status. It also helps to detect iron deficiency anemia and other iron-related disorders. It is usually done in conjunction with other blood tests such as Complete Blood Count (CBC) and red blood cell indices (RDW). It is typically done as a follow-up test after a CBC.
Preparation for Serum Iron Test
No preparation is usually necessary for a serum iron test. But people may need to fast (not eat or drink anything) for 8 to 12 hours before the test. Your healthcare provider will provide instructions, if you need to fast.
Procedure of Serum Iron Test
A healthcare professional takes a blood sample from the patient. The sample is collected in a vial and sent to the laboratory for analysis. The laboratory technician measures the amount of iron in the sample in a process called chromatography. The results are sent to the healthcare provider for evaluation.
Types of Serum Iron Test
- Total Iron Binding Capacity (TIBC): This is a measure of how much iron can be bound to transferrin, a protein that transports iron to cells.
- Serum Iron: This is a measure of the amount of iron in the serum.
- Transferrin Saturation: This is a measure of how much of the iron carrying capacity of transferrin is being used.
Risks of Serum Iron Test
The risks associated with a serum iron test are minimal and include bleeding or bruising where the needle was inserted and infection. Also, there is a slight risk of an allergic reaction to the antiseptic used to clean the skin where the needle is inserted.
Why is Serum Iron Test Done?
A serum iron test is done to evaluate a person’s iron status. It is usually done when a person is showing signs of iron deficiency anemia or other iron-related disorders. A (CBC) will usually show low hemoglobin and hematocrit levels if a person has iron deficiency anemia. The serum iron test can confirm if iron deficiency anemia is present.
When is Serum Iron Test Done?
The serum iron test is usually done as a follow-up test to a CBC. It may be ordered if a person is showing signs of anemia, fatigue, pale skin, and/or shortness of breath. The test may also be ordered to monitor a person’s iron status, especially if they have had previous iron deficiency or have been medically treated for iron deficiency anemia.