Getting tested for iron overload is important to know if you're at risk for iron overload. There are several ways to get tested for iron overload including:
Your doctor can tell you which test is right for you. Even if the tests show you do not have iron overload, it is important to track your iron levels by having a serum ferritin test every 3 months if you continue receiving blood transfusions.
This is the most common test for iron overload. A protein found inside cells, called ferritin, stores iron so that your body can use it later. Measuring serum ferritin levels in your blood can show whether there's too much or too little iron in your body. During the test, blood will be taken from a vein in your arm or the back of your hand. Your blood will then be sent to a laboratory to be checked for iron.
If you've had 10 or more transfusions in your lifetime, your doctor might order a serum ferritin test to find out your iron levels. If your serum ferritin level continues to be over 1000 mcg/L (micrograms per liter), you have iron overload.
Liver biopsy can be used to measure how much iron is stored in the liver. Liver biopsies are usually given if the liver is swollen, if liver damage is suspected, and after a blood test shows there's too much iron in the body.
To perform a liver biopsy, a piece of tissue is removed from the liver with a thin needle. The tissue is sent to a laboratory to be checked for iron and liver damage. Your doctor will discuss the biopsy results with you.
MRI uses a powerful magnetic field, radio waves, and a computer to make detailed images of organs, soft tissues, and bone. An MRI is painless, safe, and can provide fast, accurate results. However, MRI is not available everywhere.
A highly trained specialist (a radiologist) will examine your images and report the results to your doctor. Your doctor will tell you if you have too much iron in your body and if the iron has hurt your body.
