Iron Overload Profile
The Iron Overload Profile assesses iron levels and genetic risk for haemochromatosis. It helps detect iron accumulation before organ damage occurs.
Turnaround time
5 days
Biomarkers count
5
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Details about Iron Overload Profile
What is the Iron Overload Profile test?
The Iron Overload Profile is a comprehensive blood and genetic testing panel designed to assess whether excess iron is accumulating in the body and to identify inherited haemochromatosis.
This profile includes:
- Iron – circulating iron in the blood
- Total Iron Binding Capacity (TIBC) – blood’s capacity to bind iron
- Ferritin – stored iron levels
- Transferrin Saturation – percentage of transferrin bound to iron
- HFE Gene Mutations (C282Y and H63D) – genetic markers linked to hereditary haemochromatosis
Together, these markers provide a detailed assessment of iron metabolism, storage, and genetic risk.
Why do I need an Iron Overload Profile?
Iron overload can develop silently and, if untreated, may cause irreversible damage to the liver, heart, pancreas and joints. Early identification allows effective intervention.
You may need an Iron Overload Profile if you:
- Have persistently raised ferritin
- Have abnormal liver function tests
- Have a family history of haemochromatosis
- Experience chronic fatigue or joint pain
- Have diabetes or liver disease of unknown cause
- Have bronze or darkened skin
- Are being monitored for iron metabolism disorders
Symptoms and conditions linked to iron overload include:
- Chronic fatigue
- Joint pain (especially hands)
- Abdominal pain
- Liver disease or cirrhosis
- Diabetes
- Heart rhythm disturbances
- Reduced libido
Benefits of the Iron Overload Profile
- Detects iron overload early
Identifies risk before organ damage occurs. - Includes genetic testing
Confirms inherited haemochromatosis risk. - Comprehensive iron assessment
Evaluates circulation, storage and saturation. - Supports accurate diagnosis
Differentiates iron overload from inflammation. - Guides treatment decisions
Supports phlebotomy or monitoring plans. - Clinically established testing panel
Used in hepatology and haematology. - Useful for family screening
Identifies at-risk relatives. - Single blood draw and genetic test
Efficient and informative testing.
Step by step – how the test works
You can access the Iron Overload Profile UK-wide through two options:
- Clinic appointment
Attend your nearest UK clinic, where a healthcare professional will collect your blood sample. - At-home or hotel visit (£60 extra)
A qualified phlebotomist comes to your home or hotel, so you don’t need to travel.
Blood samples are analysed in an accredited UK laboratory, including genetic analysis of the HFE gene.
Your results explained
Low iron overload risk
- Normal ferritin and transferrin saturation
- No HFE mutations detected
Typical UK interpretation:
- Transferrin saturation: < 45%
- Ferritin within reference range
Moderate iron overload risk
- Raised ferritin or transferrin saturation
- Single HFE mutation (carrier status)
Typical UK interpretation:
- Transferrin saturation: 45–55%
- Heterozygous C282Y or H63D mutation
High iron overload risk
- Elevated iron markers
- Homozygous or compound heterozygous HFE mutations
Typical UK interpretation:
- Transferrin saturation: > 55%
- C282Y/C282Y or C282Y/H63D genotype
Results should be interpreted with liver function tests and clinical history.
How It Works
Simple steps to get your results
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Visit or Test at Home
Attend one of our UK or London clinics, arrange a home nurse visit, or use a finger-prick kit where available.
Get Your Results
Your sample is analysed by accredited UK laboratories, with secure results delivered directly to you.
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WhatsApp UsHow to Prepare for Your Test
Follow these guidelines for accurate results
Sample Timing
Where possible, attend your blood test between 7am and 12pm. Please wait until any short-term illness or infection has fully resolved before testing. Avoid intense exercise for 24–48 hours beforehand, as this can affect certain markers.
Fasting & Hydration
Fasting is not always required, but some tests may recommend it. If fasting is advised, avoid food for 8–12 hours before your appointment and drink water only. Stay well hydrated, as this helps with sample collection and accuracy.
Medications & Supplements
Continue prescribed medications unless advised otherwise by your clinician. Avoid vitamin, mineral, or biotin supplements for at least 24–48 hours before your test, as these can interfere with results. If you are unsure about any medication or supplement, please let us know before your appointment.
Hormones & Menstrual Cycle
For hormone-related tests, timing within your menstrual cycle may be important. If relevant, follow any specific guidance provided on your test page.
If you have any questions or special circumstances, our team is happy to advise before your appointment.