Quest Diagnostics Iron, TIBC & Ferritin Test Panel
Type
Blood Testing
Biomarkers
2
Duration
30 min
Results
48 hours
Comprehensive iron metabolism assessment measuring iron levels, iron transport capacity, and iron storage.
This panel measures iron, total iron-binding capacity (TIBC), and ferritin levels in your blood to assess various aspects of iron metabolism. Iron is crucial for hemoglobin production, oxygen transport, and energy. TIBC indicates the blood's iron-carrying capacity, while ferritin reflects iron storage. Abnormal levels can indicate anemia, hemochromatosis, or other health issues. This test helps identify potential iron imbalances and guide appropriate medical interventions.
Key Details
- Biomarkers
- 4 iron markers
- Fasting Required
- Yes, for accurate serum iron
- Sample Type
- Blood draw
- Turnaround
- 24–48 hours
- Common Use
- Anemia diagnosis, iron overload screening
Who Is This For?
Anyone experiencing unexplained fatigue, weakness, dizziness, or shortness of breath. Women with heavy menstrual periods, who are at higher risk of iron deficiency. Athletes and endurance sports participants, who lose iron through sweat and foot-strike hemolysis. Vegetarians and vegans who may not get enough dietary iron. People with a family history of hemochromatosis (hereditary iron overload).
What's Included
Preparation Required
Fasting for 10–12 hours before your appointment is recommended for accurate results (water is fine). Avoid alcohol for 24 hours and intense exercise for 12 hours before the blood draw. Morning appointments are ideal for consistent hormone and glucose readings. The blood draw typically takes 5–10 minutes.
Biomarkers Tested
2A mineral essential for oxygen transport (in hemoglobin), energy production, and immune function. Serum iron measures the amount circulating in blood, but ferritin and TIBC provide a more complete picture of iron status.
The primary iron storage protein. Ferritin reflects total body iron stores and is the first marker to drop in iron deficiency. However, ferritin also rises with inflammation, infection, and liver disease, which can mask true iron deficiency.
+ $6.00 Physician Service Fee
- Category
- Diagnostic
- Sample Type
- Blood draw
- Duration
- 30 min
- Results
- 48 hours