| Laboratory: | Clinical Biochemistry |
| Test Name: |
IRON - (P)
Test Code:
IRON
|
| Clinical Information: |
Test Indications: Iron testing is used for the assessment and monitoring of iron overload diseases or iron poisoning. Serum iron binding capacity (TIBC) will also be reported when iron is requested.
Serum ferritin and complete blood count (CBC) are the preferred tests for the detection of iron deficiency. Although widely used, serum iron, iron binding capacity, and transferrin saturation are not recommended for the investigation of iron deficiency anemia. Patient Preparation Instructions: Patient should fast 12 hours prior to specimen collection. Iron containing supplements should be avoided for 24 hours. Specimens should be collected in the morning as iron levels decrease throughout the day. |
| Collection Devices: |
|
| Specimen Required: |
Plasma: 2.0 mL
Stability 3 weeks refrigerated, one year frozen |
| Referral: |
Serum: 2.0 mL
Samples must be transferred to an aliquot tube and stored frozen if analysis will not be complete within 48 hours (#110-10-05 Serum / Plasma Separation Procedure & Transport)
|
| Requisition: | |
| Reference Values: |
7- 27 μmol/L (μmol/L x 5.58 = μg/dL)
|
| Availability: |
Stat or Routine
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| See Also: | |
| More Information: |