Preferred Sample Type
Suitable Specimen Types
- Plain Spot Urine
10 mL aliquot of a 24 hour collection preferred.
Specimen Transport
First Class PostSample Processing in Laboratory
UsualSample Preparation
UsualTurnaround Time
5-10 daysSample Stability
4 ºCUrine Iron
General Information
Iron is an essential element, serving as an enzyme cofactor and to facilitate oxygen transport. Iron is cleared primarily by biliary excretion via the feces and secondarily by renal clearance, which is a relatively minor route of clearance. Excessive accumulation of iron in iron-overload diseases leads to higher than normal urine concentration of iron, known as hemosiderinuria.
Measurements of iron in urine during chelation therapy are helpful in haemochromatosis to optimise the dose and evaluate losses of other elements.
Patient Preparation
None
Notes
None Given
Reference Range
Provided by Reference Laboratory
Specifications
- EQA Scheme?: Yes
- EQA Status: UK NEQAS