Iron Studies

Serum Iron

Normal range 60–170 µg/dL (11–30 µmol/L SI). Specimen: Serum (morning, fasting).

Also known as: iron.

60–170 µg/dLReference range

Reference range

Conventionalµg/dL

60170

SIµmol/L

1130

Specimen	Serum (morning, fasting)
Conventional range	60–170 µg/dL
SI range	11–30 µmol/L
Conversion factor	×0.179 (conventional → SI)
Panel	Iron Studies

Convert any Serum Iron result between units on the unit converter.

What is the normal range for Serum Iron?

The standard teaching reference range for Serum Iron is 60–170 µg/dL in conventional units, or 11–30 µmol/L in SI units. This value is measured in serum (morning, fasting).

Source: Adult reference values compiled from Pagana & Pagana, Mosby's Diagnostic and Laboratory Test Reference, and Fischbach & Dunning, A Manual of Laboratory and Diagnostic Tests. Reference ranges vary by laboratory, method, age, sex, and population — always use the range printed on the actual result.

Above the range

Common causes of a high Serum Iron

Hemochromatosis / iron overload
Repeated transfusions
Hemolysis
Iron supplementation

Below the range

Common causes of a low Serum Iron

Iron-deficiency anemia
Chronic blood loss
Poor intake or absorption

At the bedside

Nursing considerations

Varies through the day (higher in the morning); draw fasting and interpret with ferritin and TIBC.

Study aid

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Same panel

More Iron Studies tests

Ferritin12–300 ng/mL Total Iron-Binding Capacity (TIBC)240–450 µg/dL Transferrin200–360 mg/dL Transferrin Saturation20–50 %