Iron Profile

What is it?

An iron profile is made up of several blood tests that give information about iron in your blood. The iron profile measures total amount of iron in your blood. It also checks to see if the iron is attaching to protein as it should. The iron profile may also tell how much iron is in the body besides what is in red blood cells.

Why do I need it?

Iron profiles are used to find and test for anemia. The iron profile is the best way to tell the difference between iron deficiency (not enough iron in your blood) anemia and other kinds of anemias. Those most at risk for iron deficiency anemia are babies, children, young teenagers, and pregnant women. The iron profile is also helpful in finding and treating iron overload (having too much iron in your blood). You may have iron overload because it runs in the family. Iron overload also may be caused by children taking iron medicine belonging to another person.