Serum Iron

Fe Serum Fe Iron Level
Serum (SST, fasting AM sample) µmol/L

About this test

Total iron circulating in plasma, largely bound to transferrin. Diurnal variation (up to 30%); morning samples preferred. Low in iron deficiency and anaemia of chronic disease; high in iron overload.

Reference Ranges

Sex Age Range Notes
Female ≥ 18 yrs 9 – 26 Adult female
Male ≥ 18 yrs 11 – 28 Adult male

Clinical Interpretation

Low / Decreased
Low — iron deficiency anaemia, anaemia of chronic disease, blood loss, malabsorption, pregnancy.
High / Increased
Elevated — haemochromatosis, iron supplementation excess, haemolytic anaemia, liver disease (release from stores).
Specimen
Serum (SST, fasting AM sample)
Reporting Unit
µmol/L

⚠ Clinical Note
Reference ranges are indicative. Always interpret results in the context of the individual patient and local laboratory reference intervals, which may vary.