Iron

Iron is a crucial component of hemoglobin, the protein in red blood cells (RBCs) responsible for oxygen transport. Iron deficiency anemia (IDA) is one of the most common types of anemia, often caused by inadequate iron intake, increased iron requirements, or chronic blood loss.

Measuring serum iron levels evaluates response to therapy and ensures appropriate dosing to avoid iron overload.

Iron metabolism is affected by chronic inflammation, leading to anemia of chronic disease (ACD). In ACD, ferritin levels are usually normal or elevated, while serum iron and TIBC are low.

Hemochromatosis is a genetic disorder characterized by excessive iron absorption and accumulation. Elevated serum iron, ferritin, and transferrin saturation levels suggest iron overload. Monitoring iron levels to guide phlebotomy or chelation therapy.

Iron status is an important component of overall nutritional assessment, particularly in populations at risk for deficiencies, such as, pregnant women, infants and chidren and elderly.