Iron is essential for hemoglobin synthesis, oxygen transport, and cellular metabolism.

The Serum Iron test reflects the amount of iron available in circulation.

Clinical uses include:

Diagnosing iron deficiency anemia.

Detecting iron overload disorders (e.g., hemochromatosis, hemosiderosis).

Monitoring nutritional status and iron therapy response.

Often performed alongside TIBC, transferrin saturation, and ferritin for a complete iron profile.

Analyte: Serum iron concentration (µg/dL).

Normal Range (varies by lab): ~60–170 µg/dL.

Abnormal Findings:

Low Serum Iron: Iron deficiency anemia, chronic blood loss, malnutrition, chronic disease.

High Serum Iron: Hemochromatosis, hemolytic anemia, iron poisoning, multiple transfusions.

Clinical Use:

Provides a direct measure of circulating iron.

Helps guide diagnosis and treatment of anemia and iron disorders.

Supports monitoring of iron supplementation or chelation therapy.