Serum Iron Studies Basic

A Serum Iron Studies Basic is a set of blood tests that measures the amount of iron present in your body. This test is done if your doctor suspects iron deficiency or overload. It may also be done as a follow-up to certain routine rests, like a complete blood count or during anemia therapy, when they show abnormal results.

Iron is an essential nutrient required to produce healthy red blood cells (RBCs). It is an important part of hemoglobin, the protein in RBCs that combines with oxygen and is transported to various body parts and supports bodily functions and processes. Low levels of iron can be due to anemia, decreased intake of iron during pregnancy and lactation, or acute or chronic blood loss. Whereas, high levels (hemochromatosis) of iron in the body may indicate a possible case of severe liver disease.

You may need a Serum Iron Studies Basic test if you experience symptoms suggestive of abnormal iron levels, such as pale skin, fatigue, headaches, weakness, and joint and abdominal pain. Most of the conditions that affect iron levels can be successfully treated with iron supplements, diet, and medicines. Overnight fasting is preferred but not mandatory before undergoing a Serum Iron Studies Basic test. It is also important to inform the doctor about any of the medicines you are taking, especially iron supplements, as some of them may affect your iron levels and need to be adjusted or temporarily discontinued before the test.

Test result ranges are approximate and may differ slightly between labs depending on the methodology and laboratory guidelines. Talk to your doctor about your specific test results. Narrate your complete medical history to help them correlate your clinical and laboratory findings. The test results will help the doctor determine your medical condition, recommend lifestyle modifications such as diet and exercise, decide whether or not medications are required to manage your condition, and formulate your overall treatment plan.