What is this test?
Serum iron measures the amount of iron carried in the blood. Because levels fluctuate during the day, the sample is usually collected in the morning on an empty stomach; it is interpreted together with ferritin and iron-binding capacity rather than on its own. It is used to investigate iron deficiency and iron overload.
When is it requested?
Iron deficiency, differential diagnosis of anemias, iron overload, iron malabsorption
What does a high Iron result mean?
Serum iron fluctuates markedly during the day and after meals, so a single high result is often not meaningful; repeated high values may suggest iron overload.
- Taking an iron supplement or eating an iron-rich meal shortly before the test
- Blood drawn in the morning (iron is naturally higher in the morning)
- Breakdown of red cells in the blood sample (hemolysis)
- Repeated blood transfusions or intravenous iron treatment
- Liver cell damage, such as hepatitis
- Inherited iron overload disorder (hemochromatosis)
- Some inherited forms of anemia (e.g., thalassemia)
What does a low Iron result mean?
Low serum iron often indicates iron deficiency, but it can also drop temporarily with infection, inflammation or when blood is drawn in the evening.
- Blood drawn in the afternoon or evening
- Heavy menstrual bleeding, pregnancy or breastfeeding
- Low-iron diet
- Infection, inflammation or chronic disease (anemia of chronic disease)
- Absorption problems such as celiac disease
- Hidden blood loss from the digestive tract
My result is outside the reference range. What should I do?
Have this test in the morning while fasting, and skip iron supplements the day before. The result is interpreted by your doctor together with ferritin and iron-binding capacity, not on its own.
Reference ranges depend on the method, age and sex; always use the range printed on your report. This information is for general guidance only; consult your doctor for diagnosis and treatment.
Sample information
- Sample type: Serum
- Tube / container: Yellow-top tube
- Sample volume: 1 mL
Preparation
Serum (A 10-12 hour morning fast is required for sample collection. Do not collect a sample during acute infection.)
Testing and results
- Method: Coul
- Run schedule: Daily
- Turnaround time: 4 hours
Price and appointment
Add the test to your list to receive a price quote by e-mail, or call +90 850 640 07 30 / message us on WhatsApp (+90 537 301 22 14). You can have the test done at our branches or with our home blood collection service. Results can be viewed online with your Turkish ID number (or passport number for foreign nationals).