What initial blood tests should I order to assess for haemochromatosis in a patient with suspected iron overload?

Guideline-aligned answer with reasoning, red flags and references. Clinically reviewed by Dr Kola Tytler MBBS CertHE MBA MRCGP.

Posted: 16 August 2025 Guideline-Aligned (High Confidence) Clinically Reviewed
Dr Kola Tytler MBBS CertHE MBA MRCGPClinical Lead • iatroX

The provided UK guideline excerpts do not specify the initial blood tests to order for assessing haemochromatosis in a patient with suspected iron overload.

However, the guidelines do mention the use of serum ferritin for monitoring iron stores to prevent iron overload in the context of chronic kidney disease (CKD) . Routine monitoring of iron stores using serum ferritin should be carried out at intervals of 1 to 3 months to prevent iron overload in people with anaemia of CKD . For adults, children, and young people treated with iron for anaemia of CKD, serum ferritin levels should not rise above 800 micrograms/litre, and the iron dose should be reviewed when serum ferritin levels reach 500 micrograms/litre .

Educational content only. Always verify information and use clinical judgement.