Overview

The Iron test measures the level of circulating iron in the blood, essential for diagnosing iron-related disorders. Excessive iron can accumulate in tissues, leading to conditions like hemosiderosis, with the liver often affected first, particularly in Kupffer cells. Persistent iron overload, such as in hemochromatosis, causes buildup in hepatocytes and biliary cells, which may result from anemia, chronic alcohol use, or excessive iron intake.

What is an Iron Test?

An Iron Test measures the amount of iron in your blood and checks how well your body stores and uses iron.

Iron is an essential mineral needed to make hemoglobin, the protein in red blood cells that carries oxygen throughout the body.

Iron tests may include:

• Serum Iron
• TIBC (Total Iron-Binding Capacity)
• Transferrin Saturation
• Ferritin (Iron storage test)

What is the Purpose of an Iron Test?

The test helps to:

• Detect iron deficiency anemia
• Check if you have too much iron (iron overload)
• Find causes of fatigue, weakness, pale skin
• Evaluate nutritional status
• Monitor iron levels during pregnancy
• Diagnose medical conditions affecting iron absorption or storage
• Guide treatment (iron supplements / iron infusion)

When is an Iron Test Recommended?

✔ Symptoms of Low Iron (Deficiency)

• Fatigue / weakness
• Pale skin
• Shortness of breath
• Dizziness
• Headaches
• Cold hands and feet
• Hair fall

✔ Symptoms of High Iron (Overload)

• Joint pain
• Abdominal pain
• Skin darkening
• Tiredness
• Irregular heartbeat

✔ Medical Conditions

• Iron deficiency anemia
• Heavy periods
• Pregnancy
• Chronic blood loss (ulcers, stomach issues)
• Digestive disorders (Celiac, Crohn’s)
• Liver disease
• Hemochromatosis (genetic iron overload disorder)

✔ Lifestyle Factors

• Poor diet or malnutrition
• Vegetarian/vegan diet
• Frequent blood donation

Preparation for an Iron Test

Preparation is simple:

• Fasting for 8–12 hours is often recommended (especially for serum iron).
• Morning sample preferred because iron levels vary during the day.
• Avoid iron supplements for 24 hours before the test unless your doctor advises otherwise.
• Inform the lab if you are taking:
• Iron tablets
• Vitamin C (increases iron absorption)
• Antibiotics or hormonal medicines

The test is quick and simple:

1. A blood sample is taken from a vein in your arm.
2. The lab measures serum iron and related markers (TIBC, ferritin).
3. Results are usually available within a few hours to 1 day.

No pain other than a small needle pinch.

What is the Cost of a IRON Test ?

The Price of a IRON Test is Rs.350. However, cost of the test may fluctuate depending on following factors:

• Other tests advised along with IRON Test
• Offers or discounts
• Empanelment of the patient