Iron Levels

Many routine doctor visits only check basic iron levels, which can miss deeper imbalances. Our Iron, TIBC & Ferritin Panel provides a fuller view of how your body is storing, using, and regulating iron. Ferritin reflects the reserves of iron in your body, while serum iron, TIBC (total iron-binding capacity), and transferrin saturation show how much of that stored iron is in active circulation. Because ferritin is also an acute phase protein, it can rise in inflammation, liver disease, or chronic conditions even if iron stores are low. Looking at all of these markers together helps distinguish true iron deficiency from changes related to inflammation or illness.

From a holistic perspective, this testing can uncover patterns that a simple iron test might miss. Low iron or ferritin may point to gut malabsorption, chronic inflammation, heavy menstrual loss, or thyroid and adrenal imbalances. On the other hand, iron overload, such as in genetic hemochromatosis, can contribute to oxidative stress, organ strain, and hormone disruption. This panel helps identify underlying issues so you can take targeted steps with nutrition, lifestyle, and root cause care to restore balance, energy, and resilience.

To request this lab please fill out the form below. Within 24 hours you will receive a formal estimated cost and further instructions.

Details

Iron, TIBC and Ferritin Panel - This serum iron study panel may help diagnose iron deficiency or overload. Because ferritin level can be affected by clinical conditions other than iron disorders, the measurement of transferrin saturation-calculated from serum iron level and total iron binding capacity (TIBC)-in the same serum specimen may facilitate the diagnosis of iron deficiency or overload. Serum ferritin level generally reflects body iron storage and can be used in the diagnosis of iron deficiency and overload. Transferrin saturation is the percentage of iron bound to transferrin. In patients with anemia, ferritin levels are most frequently used to determine whether iron deficiency is the cause. However, as an acute phase protein, ferritin levels can be increased independently of iron status in inflammatory conditions, kidney disease, liver disease, and malignancy. In these clinical scenarios, the combination of ferritin level with other tests, such as transferrin saturation, may aid in the evaluation of iron deficiency.

What type of sample is required for this test?

2 mL serum

Estimated days for results: 

Results should be available in 2 - 5 business days after the sample is collected

Test Resources https://education.questdiagnostics.com/faq/FAQ199

*These statements have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration. These products are not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease.

Description via Fullscript.com