Sample Requirements:
SST and lavender top tubes
Purpose:
Assesses for causes of anemia by measuring CBC, ferritin (iron stores), folate, vitamin B12, and iron. Distinguishes between iron deficiency anemia, B12 deficiency, and anemia of chronic disease.
Reference Range:
Ferritin: 20–250 ng/mL; B12: 200–900 pg/mL; Folate: >5.9 ng/mL; Hgb: 13.5–17.5 g/dL (M), 12–16 (F)