Iron (urine)
| Category | Biochemistry >> Trace elements |
|---|---|
| Test background |
Iron is routinely measured in serum/plasma to assess iron stores and is rarely measured in urine. However, urine iron measurements can be used to monitor chelation therapy of patients with iron overload. In these cases the chelating agents interfere in dye-binding assays, so routine automated chemistry tests cannot be used. This method uses ICP-MS, which does not suffer from chelating agent interference. |
| Clinical Indications |
Measurement of urinary iron excretion during chelation therapy |
| Reference range | <1.0 µmol/L |
| Sample & container required | Random urine or 24 hour urine collection |
| Sample volume | 0.5 mL |
| Transport storage | Stable at 2-8°C Sample can be sent by first class post. |
| Turnaround time | 1 week |
| Notes | Increased concentrations can be seen in proteinuria. |