Iron (Ferrum, Fe)

It is found in the body in various forms. Most iron is part of hemoglobin in red blood cells; a smaller portion is found in myoglobin in muscles and in iron-containing enzymes. The remainder is bound to the proteins ferritin and hemosiderin, which are storage forms of iron. Only iron bound to the protein transferrin can be transported in blood plasma. Iron metabolism is strictly regulated to ensure an optimal balance between its intake, utilization, and storage.

More detailed information about the test

Serum iron measurement quantifies the iron bound to transferrin in the blood. The test is useful for detecting iron deficiency or excess. When diagnosing iron metabolism disorders, it is advisable to supplement this test with additional tests, such as ferritin, transferrin saturation, or total iron-binding capacity.

Elevated iron levels can be caused by various factors, such as:

• chronic infections,
• inflammation,
• hemochromatosis,
• repeated blood transfusions,
• iron overdose.

Hemochromatosis is a genetic disorder characterized by excessive absorption of iron from food and its accumulation in organs such as the liver, pancreas, and heart, which can lead to severe damage. It can manifest as fatigue, weakness, abdominal pain, darkening of the skin (pigmentation), and other symptoms.

Low iron levels can be caused by chronic blood loss due to:

• bleeding from the digestive tract (stomach ulcers, tumors, hemorrhoids, ulcerative colitis),
• very heavy menstrual bleeding,
• postpartum bleeding.

Low iron levels are also caused by:

• insufficient intake or increased need for iron,
• impaired iron absorption due to various digestive tract disorders,
• chronic inflammation and chronic diseases.

Iron deficiency in the body can lead to anemia, which manifests with symptoms such as fatigue, weakness, pale skin and mucous membranes, brittle nails, hair loss, etc.