Iron levels: measuring iron levels in the laboratory

IRON LEVELS

Iron is one of the most important, well-known and studied microminerals in the body. Iron is used for several functions in humans, animals and plants. Iron has two biological forms: heme iron (Fe2+) and non-heme iron (Fe3+). The animal kingdom predominantly features the easily absorbed heme iron whereas the plant kingdom features the less readily absorbed non-heme iron.

Iron is a crucial factor in the function of hundreds of proteins and enzymes that support, for example, oxygen transfer, energy production, and DNA synthesis. Iron is also needed as structural matter in the body, for example, in the hemoglobin in red blood cells (67 % of the total iron volume), the myoglobin in muscle cells (3.5 %), the neuroglobin in nerve cells as well as the cytochromes and peroxidase enzymes of cells (approximately 3 %).

A sufficient intake of iron has been shown to prevent anemia, support energy production, help maintain normal cognitive function, support growth and development (in children and young people), support the normal function of the immune system, maintain a positive mental outlook (may prevent mild depression or anxiety) and prevent the occurrence of restless legs.

MEASURING IRON LEVELS IN LABORATORY

Iron levels can and should be studied by examining several laboratory markers. To check for anemia, the basic test is the complete blood count (see above). In addition, the level of stored iron or ferritin should be checked. However, this may be elevated in connection with inflammation and thus will not provide accurate insight into the stored iron situation. In many situations, it is worthwhile to check the serum iron and transferrin saturation levels. For example, the combination of low serum iron, high transferrin, low transferrin saturation, and high ferritin indicates functional iron deficiency.