Normal iron levels vary depending on age and sex. Several sources provide slightly different ranges, highlighting the importance of consulting your doctor for personalized interpretation of your results.
Serum Iron Levels: A Summary of Ranges
The following table summarizes the normal serum iron ranges reported from multiple reputable sources, presented in both mcg/dL and µmol/L (SI units):
| Group | mcg/dL Range | µmol/L Range (SI units) | Source |
|---|---|---|---|
| Males | 50-150, 80-180 | 8.95-26.85, 14-32 | Mount Sinai, Medscape, Various other sources |
| Females | 35-145, 60-160 | 6.26-25.95, 11-29 | Mount Sinai, Medscape, Various other sources |
| Newborns | 100-250 | Medscape, Various other sources | |
| Women (NHLBI) | 10-30 | National Heart, Lung, and Blood Institute (NHLBI) |
Important Note: These ranges are guidelines, and individual results can vary. A single blood test result alone doesn't diagnose an iron deficiency or excess. Your doctor will consider other factors, such as your symptoms, medical history, and other blood test results (like hemoglobin levels and ferritin) before making a diagnosis or recommending treatment.
Understanding the Discrepancies
The slight variations in normal ranges between different sources may be attributed to differences in testing methods, populations studied, and the criteria used to define "normal."
Beyond Serum Iron: A Holistic View
While serum iron levels are important, they are only one piece of the puzzle in assessing your overall iron status. Other factors such as ferritin (iron storage protein), transferrin saturation (the percentage of transferrin bound to iron), and total iron-binding capacity (TIBC) are also considered for a comprehensive evaluation.
