Iron Test
Also known as: Fe; serum iron
The Test Sample
What is being tested?
Iron is an essential trace element in your blood. It is necessary for forming healthy red blood cells, which carry oxygen through your body, and for some enzymes, which perform tasks in your body.
Because no single test is accepted for diagnosing iron deficiency anaemia (lack of iron), other tests may be requested at the same time, such as TIBC (total iron binding capacity), UIBC (unbound iron biding capacity) or transferrin, and ferritin.
Because no single test is accepted for diagnosing iron deficiency anaemia (lack of iron), other tests may be requested at the same time, such as TIBC (total iron binding capacity), UIBC (unbound iron biding capacity) or transferrin, and ferritin.
How is the sample collected for testing?
A blood sample is taken by needle from a vein in your arm.
NOTE: If undergoing medical tests makes you or someone you care for anxious, embarrassed, or even difficult to manage, you might consider reading one or more of the following articles: Coping with Test Pain, Discomfort, and Anxiety, Tips on Blood Testing, Tips to Help Children through Their Medical Tests, and Tips to Help the Elderly through Their Medical Tests.
Another article, Follow That Sample, provides a glimpse at the collection and processing of a blood sample and throat culture.
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Mondofacto Online Medical Dictionary
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