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HelpTest Code LAB94 Iron (Fe) Level
Clinical System Name
Iron (Fe) Level
Synonyms
Fe (Iron)
Sample Requirements
Specimen: Whole blood
Container(s): Lt. Green/Mint Top Lithium Heparin, Lt. Green/Lithium Heparin Microtainer, Gold SST, Gold Microtainer, Dark Green/Sodium Heparin, Red
Preferred Vol: 1.0 mL
Minimum Vol: 0.5 mL
Note: Only a total iron level will be run in cases of iron ingestion. Method is affected by hemolysis, sodium citrate, EDTA, fluoride, oxalate. Heparin is acceptable for Iron Level, but not TIBC. Not affected by freezing.
Processing Instructions
Reject due to: Age of specimen, incorrect collection container, hemolysis.
Spin: Y
Aliquot: Y
Storage location: Core 5 Refrigerator
Off-site collection: Avoid hemolysis. Specimen should be centrifuged within 2 hours of collection. Spin blood and transfer serum or plasma to plastic tube and refrigerate or freeze.
Stability
| Specimen Type | Temperature | Time |
|---|---|---|
| Serum or Plasma | RT |
≤ 4 d |
| Serum or Plasma | 2-8 C |
≤ 7 d |
| Serum or Plasma | -20 C or -70 C |
≤ 90 d |
Availability
| STAT | Performed | TAT |
|---|---|---|
| Y | 24/7 | 1 h |
Performing Laboratory
Seattle Children's Laboratory
Department
Department: Core Chemistry
Phone Number: 206-987-2617 (Client Services)
CPT Codes
83540
Methodology
Method: Two Point Rate by Vitros 4600
Analytical Volume: 0.02 mL serum or plasma + 0.03 mL dead space
Reference Range
| Age | µg/dL |
| 0 - 1 W | 125 - 240 |
| 1 W- 12 Y | 20 - 123 |
| 12 Y- Adult | 40 - 140 |
| Toxic |
≥ 350 |
Description
The measurements of serum iron and serum iron-binding capacity are useful in the differential diagnosis of anemia, iron deficiency anemia, thalassemia, possible sideroblastic anemia, and iron poisoning. Serum iron is decreased in cases of insufficient dietary iron, chronic blood loss, inadequate absorption of iron, impaired release of iron stores (commonly observed in inflammation), infection, and chronic diseases.