Test Category: Specialist Biochemistry
Investigation Name:Iron – Urine
Alias or Abbreviation:Urine Fe, 24 hour urine iron excretion, urine iron to creatinine ratio
Accreditation:UKAS ISO15189: 2022 accredited test: On scope
Intro:
While in suspected acute iron poisoning, serum iron is the first line investigation, if chelation with desferrioxamine (DFO) is initiated, serum iron results are no longer informative as both chelated and non-chelated species will be detected. Measurement of urine iron may be useful for monitoring treatment.if measurement is delayed, interpretation of serum iron results becomes more difficult due to the movement of iron into cells. If iron poisoning is confirmed, chelation with desferrioxamine (DFO) may be considered.
Once chelation has been initiated, serum iron measurements are no longer useful as both chelated and unchelated species will be detected. In this situation, the measurement of urine iron may be of benefit in monitoring treatment. Urine iron may also be measured to optimise iron chelation therapy dose in patients with haemochromatosis and thalassaemia.
Pathology Laboratory:Trace Elements Laboratory
Requestable Seperately?Yes
Units:µmol/L
Minimum Sample Volume:2 mL urine
Expected Turnaround Time:7 working days.
Urgent analysis where clinically indicated may be arranged directly with the laboratory.
Test Code:UFE
Sample Type:
24h urine collection in polypropylene collection container or acid-rinsed polyethylene container.Specimens can be aliquoted into a plain white -top universal container prior to transportation.
24 hour collection period dates, time and total volume MUST be recorded.
Spot urine collected into a plain white -top universal container
Complex Reference Range:Random urine iron: <1 µmol/L
Referred to Another Laboratory?No
Storage Requirements:Store separated plasma/serum at 4 °C prior to dispatch
Posting Address / Requirements:Ambient temperature, 1st Class post,
Sandwell Health Campus,
Specialist Chemistry,
Pathology Department,
Lyndon
B71 4HJ
EQA Scheme:UK NEQAS for Trace Elements
Further information:We are a designated Supra-Regional Assay Service (SAS) Laboratory for Trace Elements.
Lead Contact Details:Dr Nicola Barlow, Consultant Clinical Scientist,
SAS Director Trace Elements Laboratory,
Email: nicola.barlow1@nhs.net
Email Address For Chasing Results:rwh-tr.bcpsspecialistchemistryenquiries@nhs.net
Methodology:Inductively coupled plasma mass spectrometry
Site Sample Tested:Sandwell Health Campus
Cost:Please email: bcpspathology.info@nhs.net for further details
Contact Number:0121 507 5162
