Iron

This test helps to determine if there is a deficiency, as in anaemia, or if there is an overload, such as iron poisoning.

Iron (Fe) is an essential trace element found in the body that is necessary for the maintenance of life. Iron is absorbed through the intestines from diets and is needed in the production and maintenance of healthy red blood cells (RBC). Iron makes up an important component of haemoglobin, which is the oxygen-carrying component of a RBC. Without iron, a red blood cell is unable to carry oxygen, and the person is said to have iron deficiency anaemia. Testing iron can help to determine if there is a deficiency, as in anaemia, or if there is an overload, such as iron poisoning. Both conditions can be potentially fatal.

This test is performed in following conditions such as:

• Chronic fatigue/tiredness
• Dizziness
• Weakness
• Headaches
• Pallor
• Symptoms of iron overload

Also Known As: Fe