A person can ask his or her doctor to check body iron levels with the following tests: Serum iron -- (SI) This test is best conducted after fasting for at least three hours. Also, iron or vitamin C supplements should be discontinued at least three days before taking the test. Do not discontinue other medication unless your doctor tells you to. Total iron binding capacity (TIBC) -- This test tells how well your body can bind to iron. Serum iron divided by TIBC x 100% gives you important information about the transferrin-iron saturation percentage (TS%). TS% is usually 25-35%; in some people with iron overload, the TS% is very high. There are other types of iron overload where the TS% is normal. Serum ferritin (SF) -- This measures the amount of iron contained or stored in the body.

Serum ferritin reference ranges are different for adults and children. For adults the Ideal Range is 50-150ng/mL.

In the past, liver biopsy was widely used to diagnose hemochromatosis. Today, liver biopsy is not necessary to diagnose the inherited form of HHC. DNA tests are available to determine if a person has genetic hemochromatosis.

Download the Iron Disorders Institute Physician Hemochromatosis Diagnosis Algorithm and Management Protocol