Iron Studies Test

What is the iron studies Test?

Iron is one of the vital minerals that is required by our body for the production of red blood cells. It is one of the significant components of haemoglobin. Haemoglobin in the blood binds with oxygen in the lungs and transports it to the rest of the body. Besides transporting oxygen, iron helps the body to maintain healthy muscles and bone marrow production. Too little or too much iron in the blood might signify anaemia or other significant disorder. Iron studies test help to diagnose the cause and type of anaemia.

When does the doctor prescribe the iron studies test?

A doctor may prescribe this test when he suspects

• Anaemia of any type
• Hemochromatosis (it is a disorder caused by the overloading of iron and may lead to liver damage).
• In patients who are already having treatment for anaemi

What are the components of the iron studies test?

The iron study is a blood test that can be done alone or in combination with other.

• Transferrin test- This test checks the protein transferrin, which helps in the transport of iron throughout the body
• Serum iron test- this test detects the amount of iron present in the blood
• Ferritin Blood test -This test checks the amount of stored iron in the body.
• Total iron-binding capacity (TIBC)- This test checks the ability of the iron to attach to transferrin proteins in the blood

What is the normal range of the iron studies test?

• Transferrin saturation: 20% to 50%
• Iron: 60 to 170 mcg/dL
• Total iron binding capacity (TIBC): 240 to 450 mcg/dL

Note: The normal range can differ from lab to lab. A value low or high than the normal range indicates the need for further investigation.

What are the prerequisites for the iron studies test?

The sample is collected from the vein

There is no risk to the patient.

Consult your doctor before undergoing the test.