Iron is an important constituent of hemoglobin and is necessary for oxygen transport to various body tissues. Iron deficiency is a common cause of anemia, especially among children, women of childbearing age and pregnant women. If your levels are low then it can be rectified by eating iron supplements (as advised by your physician) or even by adding iron containing foods in your diet (apples, beetroot, green leafy vegetables like spinach, pomegranate & meat/poultry etc.).
Ferritin is a protein that stores iron. Ferritin level in blood indicates the total level of iron stored in the body, and its derangement may be suggestive of iron deficiency anemia, iron overload, liver diseases and certain syndromes. Think of ferritin as your bank & serum Iron as your wallet. The levels in your wallet might be fluctuating but any changes are ferritin happen over a longer time. Ferritin also acts as an acute phase reactant & might be elevated in cases of inflammation in the body. Hence it is always recommended to interpret the value of ferritin keeping in mind any causes of inflammation in the person's body.
It measures the total iron binding capacity in blood.
This test measures the reserve iron binding capacity.
Transferrin is a protein that binds with iron and helps in its transport. Transferrin saturation is the percentage of transferrin attached to iron as compared to the maximum transferrin available to bind with iron.
Iron tests are a group of blood tests that measure the levels of iron and related substances in the blood. These tests help evaluate iron status, diagnose various forms of anemia, and assess conditions related to iron deficiency or overload.
Iron Test (Including Ferritin):
Adults-
Children-
Low Serum Iron: Low levels might indicate iron deficiency, anemia, or chronic diseases affecting iron absorption. High Serum Iron or Transferrin Saturation: Elevated levels might suggest iron overload conditions like hemochromatosis.
Iron tests usually involve a blood draw to measure serum iron levels.
Question: What is an Iron Test, and why is it done? Answer: It assesses your body's iron levels, which are crucial for various bodily functions
Question: What might high serum iron levels indicate? Answer: Elevated serum iron can occur in conditions like hemochromatosis or iron overdose
Question: What does a high TIBC value mean in the test? Answer: High TIBC may indicate iron deficiency or anemia.
Question: Why is transferrin saturation important, and what does low saturation suggest? Answer:Transferrin saturation shows how much iron is available for your body to use; low levels may suggest iron deficiency.
Question: What is the significance of Ferritin in the test? Answer: Ferritin measures stored iron; low levels can indicate iron deficiency. Ferritin is also an acute phase reactant & is known to increase in cases of inflammation.
Question: How can I improve low iron levels? Answer: Treatment depends on the cause but may include dietary changes, iron supplements, or addressing underlying conditions.
Question: What can cause high ferritin levels besides excess iron intake? Answer: High ferritin levels may occur in conditions like inflammation, liver disease, or certain cancers.
Question: Is fasting required before an Iron Test? Answer:Fasting is not typically required for this test, but follow your doctor's instructions.
Question:Can I take iron supplements before the test? Answer:It's best to avoid iron supplements before the test unless your doctor advises otherwise.
Question:How often should I get an Iron Test done? Answer:The frequency depends on your health and medical history; your doctor will recommend the appropriate schedule.
When discussing your Iron Test results with your doctor, consider asking: