Significance of Iron Measurements

Abstract

Before physicians assess the meaning of serum iron concentration and total iron-binding capacity, they should be aware of certain events. Serum iron concentration is higher in the morning than in the evening, tends to decrease as patients age, and can be altered by conditions under which specimens are drawn and by contaminated reagents or glassware. Hormonal changes, such as those induced by oral contraceptives and pregnancy, and nonhematologic conditions can also change iron metabolism.