Iron Studies

Iron studies typically include serum iron, total iron‑binding capacity (TIBC) or transferrin, transferrin saturation (calculated from serum iron and TIBC), and serum ferritin. Labs may also report unsaturated iron‑binding capacity (UIBC) and soluble transferrin receptor in specific situations. Together these tests assess circulating iron, transport capacity and stored iron, helping diagnose deficiency, overload, or inflammation‑related changes.

A full iron panel measures serum iron, ferritin, total iron‑binding capacity (TIBC) or transferrin, and calculates transferrin saturation (sometimes including UIBC). It assesses iron stores and transport to diagnose iron deficiency, anemia of chronic disease, or iron overload such as hemochromatosis. Ferritin is an acute‑phase reactant, so inflammatory markers are often checked to interpret results accurately.

Normal iron studies: serum iron 60–170 µg/dL; ferritin about 30–300 ng/mL in men and 15–150 ng/mL in women; TIBC 240–450 µg/dL; transferrin saturation 20–50%. Hemoglobin is often checked simultaneously (men ~13.8–17.2 g/dL, women ~12.1–15.1 g/dL). Abnormal values suggest iron deficiency, iron overload or inflammation and require clinical correlation. Talk to your clinician for interpretation.

Have iron studies done if you have symptoms of iron deficiency (fatigue, pallor, breathlessness, restless legs), an abnormal CBC (low haemoglobin or microcytosis), or risk factors such as heavy menstrual bleeding, pregnancy, gastrointestinal blood loss, chronic kidney or inflammatory disease. Use them to monitor iron therapy. Prefer an early‑morning fasting sample and interpret ferritin cautiously during infection or inflammation; repeat testing after treatment to confirm response.

Early signs of iron deficiency include persistent fatigue and weakness, pale skin and paler inner eyelids, shortness of breath and dizziness, headaches and trouble concentrating. You may also notice cold hands and feet, brittle or spoon-shaped nails, hair thinning, restless legs, and unusual cravings for non-food items (pica, e.g., ice). Appetite loss and reduced exercise tolerance are common early symptoms.

A doctor orders an iron study to evaluate iron status—detect iron deficiency anemia or iron overload (hemochromatosis), investigate unexplained fatigue, pallor, or abnormal blood counts, and to monitor iron therapy or chronic conditions (pregnancy, kidney disease, chronic blood loss). Tests (serum iron, ferritin, TIBC/transferrin saturation) help distinguish deficiency, inflammation, or overload and guide treatment.