Lever
Lifestyle
- Regular monitoring of iron levels
- Avoidance of unnecessary iron supplementation
- Regular physical activity
- Stress management
Blutwerte · Marker
Eisen
Serum Iron · Serumeisen · Fe
Eisen & AnämieNüchtern erforderlichZeitabhängig
- Einheit:
- µmol/L
- Abbreviation
- Fe
Serum iron measures the amount of iron bound to transferrin in the bloodstream.
Reference Ranges
Reference
11.6–31.3µmol/L
11.6
15
25
31.3
LowNormalHigh
Reference
Optimal
Unit · µmol/LRanges may vary slightly based on laboratory and population. Consider sex-specific differences.
Overview
Übersicht
Serum iron, also known as Eisen or Fe, is a blood biomarker that quantifies the amount of circulating iron bound to transferrin in the bloodstream. It plays a crucial role in oxygen transport and storage, as well as in various enzymatic processes. Researchers have found that serum iron levels are indicative of iron metabolism and homeostasis in the body. Clinically, serum iron is significant in diagnosing and managing conditions such as iron deficiency anemia (IDA), hereditary hemochromatosis, and anemia of chronic disease. Low serum iron levels are often associated with IDA, characterized by microcytosis and hypochromia, while elevated levels may indicate hemochromatosis or other iron overload disorders. For athletes and biohackers, maintaining optimal serum iron levels is essential for peak performance and endurance, as iron is vital for hemoglobin synthesis and oxygen delivery to muscles. However, excessive iron can lead to oxidative stress and tissue damage, highlighting the importance of balanced levels. Researchers observed that serum iron levels can be influenced by various factors, including dietary intake, circadian rhythms, and acute inflammation. It is recommended to measure serum iron in the morning, fasting, to minimize diurnal variation and interference from recent food intake or supplements.
Klinische Bedeutung
Reduced serum iron levels indicate iron deficiency anemia or anemia of chronic disease. Elevated levels suggest conditions like hereditary hemochromatosis or iron overload.
Dynamics
Trend Interpretation
Rising Values
Progressively rising serum iron levels may suggest iron overload conditions like hemochromatosis. Retest in 4 weeks if levels remain elevated.
Falling Values
Falling serum iron levels may indicate worsening iron deficiency or increased loss. Investigate underlying causes.
Re-test Interval
4 weeks if outside optimal range
Etiology
Causes — High & Low
Cause
Elevated Levels
- Hereditary hemochromatosis
- Iron supplementation
- Repeated blood transfusions
- Liver disease
- Hemolytic anemia
Cause
Low Levels
- Iron deficiency anemia
- Chronic blood loss
- Malabsorption syndromes
- Chronic kidney disease
- Inflammatory states
Protocol
How to Optimize
Lever
Nutrition
- Increased intake of iron-rich foods
- Consumption of vitamin C to enhance iron absorption
- Avoidance of tea or coffee with meals
Lever
Supplementation
- Iron supplements if deficient
- Vitamin C to enhance absorption
Note:
Consult a physician before starting iron supplements, especially if not diagnosed with deficiency.
Testing Guidelines
🍽️Fasting Required
🕐Time-Sensitive
Iron levels are highest in the morning; testing is recommended at this time for consistency.
Testing Frequency
Annually for healthy adults, more frequently if managing a condition.
Interfering Factors
- Recent iron supplementation
- Acute inflammation
- Menstrual cycle
Related Peptides & Hormones
Hepcidin
hormone or peptideMay affect
Open Research Questions
Current research suggests that reference ranges for serum ferritin and transferrin saturation in diverse populations remain debated, particularly in relation to age and gender variations. Researchers have not yet established optimal targets for iron levels in specific conditions like chronic disease or pregnancy. Additionally, unanswered clinical questions include the precise mechanisms of hepcidin regulation and the best strategies for managing iron overload in hereditary hemochromatosis.
24 Research Publications
823
Total Citations
8
Human/RCT
4.9
Avg. Influence
2025
Latest
Sort
Filter
01Top
#01
Evaluation of anemia in children.
ReviewInfluence8.0
179
This study evaluated anemia in children, noting that it is often asymptomatic and detected through screening. Researchers found that mild microcytic anemia may be treated with oral iron, while severe cases require further investigation for potential blood loss. The classification of anemia into microcytic, normocytic, and macrocytic is crucial for appropriate management.
02Top
#02
Iron overload syndromes and the liver.
ReviewInfluence7.0
159
This article reviewed the conditions leading to iron accumulation in the liver. Researchers discussed the diagnostic tools available to pathologists for assessing iron overload, including histologic examination and laboratory iron tests. The review emphasizes the importance of understanding the underlying causes of iron accumulation for accurate diagnosis.
03Top
#03
Serotonin syndrome vs neuroleptic malignant syndrome: a contrast of causes, diagnoses, and management.
ReviewInfluence11.0
107
This study contrasted serotonin syndrome (SS) and neuroleptic malignant syndrome (NMS), both of which can arise from psychotropic medications. Researchers observed that NMS is distinguished by low serum iron levels and specific laboratory profiles, while SS presents with different clinical features. The findings underscore the importance of accurate diagnosis for effective management.
04
#04
Meta-Analysis of Copper and Iron in Parkinson's Disease Brain and Biofluids.
Meta-AnalysisInfluence2.0
79
This meta-analysis assessed copper and iron levels in Parkinson's disease. Researchers confirmed that iron levels were elevated in the substantia nigra of Parkinson's patients, while copper levels were decreased. Additionally, serum iron was found to be lower in Parkinson's disease compared to controls, highlighting the complex role of these metals in the disease.
05
#05
Diagnosing iron deficiency: Controversies and novel metrics.
Rusch Jody A, et al. · Best practice & research. Clinical anaesthesiology · 2023
ReviewInfluence4.0
56
This review examined the diagnostic challenges of iron deficiency, focusing on established and novel biomarkers. Researchers found that traditional markers like serum iron and ferritin, along with newer metrics like soluble transferrin receptor, are essential for accurate diagnosis. The study aimed to improve understanding of iron metabolism and its implications for patient care.
Key findings
- 01Researchers observed that established markers like serum iron and ferritin are commonly used but have limitations.
- 02The review identified novel biomarkers, such as soluble transferrin receptor and hepcidin, which may enhance diagnosis.
- 03Researchers noted the importance of distinguishing between different types of anemia to improve clinical outcomes.
06
#06
Anemia of chronic disease.
Review
55
This study focused on anemia of chronic disease (ACD), which is common among hospitalized patients. Researchers found that ACD is characterized by low serum iron and normal or increased ferritin levels, distinguishing it from iron deficiency anemia. The study highlighted that successful treatment of underlying conditions often alleviates ACD.
07
#07
Evaluation of microcytosis.
Van Vranken Michele · American family physician · 2010
Review
49
This study evaluated microcytosis as an incidental finding in patients. Researchers observed that the most common causes include iron deficiency anemia and thalassemia trait, with serum ferritin measurement being the first recommended test. The findings stress the importance of identifying the underlying cause of microcytosis for proper management.
Key findings
- 01The primary causes of microcytosis include iron deficiency anemia and thalassemia trait.
- 02Low serum ferritin levels indicate iron deficiency, which is often linked to blood loss.
- 03Further tests may be needed if ferritin levels are normal, including assessments of iron levels and hemoglobin types.
08
#08
Changes in micronutrient and inflammation serum biomarker concentrations after a norovirus human challenge.
Human
38
This study modeled the inflammatory response to norovirus infection and its impact on micronutrient biomarkers. Researchers observed that inflammation affected serum concentrations of ferritin and hepcidin, while serum iron and transferrin saturation decreased during the inflammatory response. The findings highlight the need to consider inflammation when assessing nutritional status.
09
#09
Revisiting Iron Metabolism, Iron Homeostasis and Iron Deficiency Anemia.
Review
31
This review examined iron deficiency anemia (IDA), highlighting its prevalence among children, women of childbearing age, and the elderly. Researchers found that IDA is characterized by low serum iron, decreased transferrin saturation, and low ferritin levels, with an estimated 2 billion people affected globally. The review emphasized the importance of identifying underlying causes for effective management.
10
#10
Iron and iron-related proteins in alcohol consumers: cellular and clinical aspects.
Review
26
This review focused on the relationship between alcohol consumption and iron metabolism. Researchers observed that alcohol consumers often exhibit dysregulation of iron levels, which can complicate the diagnosis and management of alcohol-associated liver disease. The study provides insights into the alterations of iron parameters in this population.
Clinical Trials (10)
10
Total Trials
1,103
Total Enrolled
Absorption of Iron From Stabilized Lactoferrin: A Study in Women With Iron Deficiency
NCT07394972RECRUITING
Sponsor
Nicole Stoffel
Enrollment
45
Started
2026
Primary outcome
Fractional iron absorption (%)
Iron Deficiency (Without Anemia)
Effect of Chitin and Ascorbic Acid on Dietary Insect Iron Absorption
NCT06822062RECRUITING
Sponsor
Swiss Distance University of Applied Sciences
Enrollment
25
Started
2025
Primary outcome
Fractional iron absorption
Iron Deficiency (Without Anemia)
Investigation of the Effects of Curcumin and Resveratrol Supplements Added to the Mediterranean Diet on Disease Severity and Inflammatory Biomarkers in Patients With Ulcerative Colitis
NCT05761327COMPLETED
Sponsor
Ardahan University
Enrollment
48
Started
2022
Primary outcome
Inflammatory Bowel Disease Questionnaire (IBDQ)
Ulcerative Colitis
Potential of Prebiotic Galacto-oligosaccharides in Improving Efficacy and Safety of Oral Iron Supplementation in HIV-infected Children
NCT04931641COMPLETED
Sponsor
Swiss Federal Institute of Technology
Enrollment
86
Started
2021
Primary outcome
Iron status: Serum Ferritin (ug/L) (SF)
Iron DeficiencyHIV
Serum Bovine Immunoglobulin (SBI) in Children and Young Adults With Inflammatory Bowel Disease (IBD)
Sponsor
Monisha Hitesh Shah
Enrollment
6
Started
2020
Primary outcome
Effects of Serum Bovine Immunoglobulin (SBI) on nutrition of pediatric patients with inflammatory Bowel Disease
Inflammatory Bowel DiseasesUlcerative ColitisCrohn Disease
Intravenous Iron in paTients With Heart failURe and Reduced Ejection fracTion (HFREF) pLus Iron dEficiency
Sponsor
RWTH Aachen University
Enrollment
23
Started
2017
Primary outcome
changes in blood intact FGF23 after infusion of 1000 mg ferric carboxymaltose
Heart Failure, SystolicIron Deficiency
Potential Adverse Developmental and Nutritional Consequences of Helicobacter Pylori Infection in Israeli Children
NCT02654197UNKNOWN
Sponsor
Hillel Yaffe Medical Center
Enrollment
600
Started
2016
Primary outcome
Changes in means of differences in height
Helicobacter Pylori InfectionIron Deficiency AnemiaChild Development
Optimizing Iron Suppletion After Roux-en-Y Gastric Bypass
Sponsor
Rijnstate Hospital
Enrollment
120
Started
2014
Primary outcome
normal value serum ferritin
Iron Deficiency
HEPFER-Evaluation of a New Phenotypic Biological Marker in Genetic Type 1 Hemochromatosis
NCT01784939COMPLETED
Sponsor
Rennes University Hospital
Enrollment
31
Started
2013
Primary outcome
distribution of values of Hepcidin / ferritin plasma ratio
Hereditary Hemochromatosis C282Y Homozygous
Magnetic Resonance Angiography for Peripheral Arterial Disease (PAD)
Sponsor
AMAG Pharmaceuticals, Inc.
Enrollment
119
Started
2008
Primary outcome
Segment-level Sensitivity and Specificity of VE-MRI at 3 Ferumoxytol Dosing Levels and Differences in Sensitivity and Specificity by Dose Group
Peripheral Arterial Disease (PAD)
Publication Trend
Research publications about Eisen over time
9totalTrack your bloodwork in PepStack
Log lab results, track trends and optimize your biomarkers over time.
Legal Disclaimer
This page is for informational and research purposes only. All information is based on published scientific literature and does not constitute medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment recommendations. Many substances listed may not be approved for human use and may be subject to drug regulation laws (e.g., AMG in Germany, FDA in the US). PepStack does not encourage the use of any substance on humans. Always consult a qualified healthcare professional before making any health-related decisions. Use of this information is entirely at your own risk. PepStack assumes no liability for the accuracy, completeness, or timeliness of the content provided. Full disclaimer