Iron is found mainly in the body's hemoglobin (red blood cells), but it also binds to various proteins. Iron norms in blood biochemistry are different for men and women. Find out what could be the causes of excess or deficiency of iron in the blood.
Iron , in trace amounts, is found in some enzymes.Blood iron levelsdepends on absorption in the digestive tract, on its storage in the gut, spleen and bone marrow, as well as on the production and breakdown of hemoglobin and the rate at which iron is excreted from the body.
Iron: norms in biochemical research
- women - 6.6-26 mmol / l (37-145 mg / dl)
- men - 10.6-28.3 mmol / l (50-158 mg / 100dl)
It should be remembered that the values are lower in women than in men by an average of about 10 mg. They also fluctuate significantly throughout the day, and in women additionally in the monthly cycle.
Iron below normal: reasons
Drop in blood iron levels can be caused by anemia, cancer, chronic kidney failure, connective tissue disease, and vitamin C deficiency.
Iron Above Normal: Reasons
Increased blood iron levels can be caused by frequent transfusions or excessive intravenous or intramuscular administration of iron preparations. It can also be a sign of viral hepatitis, acute liver damage (the increase in iron levels is proportional to the degree of liver necrosis), inflammation of the kidneys or as a result of contraceptive use.
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