What Are Iron Studies in a Blood Test?

Q: What Are Iron Studies in a Blood Test?

Iron studies: serum iron, TIBC, transferrin saturation, ferritin. Together they assess iron stores, transport, and utilization.

Iron studies is a panel assessing your body's iron status.

The Panel

Serum iron: 60-170 µg/dL
TIBC: 240-450 µg/dL
Transferrin saturation: 20-50%
Ferritin: 20-500/200 ng/mL

Interpreting Together

Iron deficiency: low ferritin + high TIBC + low saturation
Iron overload: high ferritin + low TIBC + high saturation
Chronic disease: normal ferritin + low TIBC + low iron

When Ordered

Fatigue
Suspected anemia
Heavy periods
Vegetarian diet
Hemochromatosis screening

Source: NLM MedlinePlus, American Association for Clinical Chemistry.

Ratings summarize government-reported measures — they don't capture your personal needs. Visit the facility, ask about staffing and services, and use CMS checklists. This profile is informational only and is not a recommendation.

Compare lab testing options near you ↗ (affiliate link)