Morning, empty-stomach samples are best for the iron part. Call 8872524007 to confirm what your doctor's slip includes.
What the Anaemia Profile test checks
Profiles differ between doctors and labs, so we match the tests to your slip. A typical anaemia profile includes:
- CBC with red cell indices (MCV, MCH, RDW), to see whether red cells are small, normal or large
- peripheral smear, where the pathologist looks at cell shape
- reticulocyte count, showing whether the marrow is responding
- serum iron, TIBC and transferrin saturation, showing iron in circulation
- ferritin, the best single marker of iron stores
- vitamin B12 and folate, for large-cell anaemia
Your doctor may add or drop tests. If a test on the slip isn't in our standard set, we'll tell you before collecting.
Why your doctor may order it
When a haemoglobin result comes back low, or symptoms suggest anaemia: tiredness, breathlessness, cold hands, hair fall, brittle nails, craving to eat ice or mud (pica), or tingling in the feet. It's common in pregnancy, in teenage girls, in people on a strict vegetarian diet (B12 is found mainly in animal foods, including milk) and in older adults on long-term acid-reducing or diabetes medicines such as metformin.
How to prepare
Come in the morning after an overnight fast of about 8–10 hours. Serum iron rises after meals and swings through the day, so a fasting morning sample is the most useful. Water is fine; tea is not, as it breaks the fast. If you take iron tablets, ask your doctor whether to skip the dose on the morning of the test, as a recent dose can raise serum iron. Biotin supplements (often in hair and nail products) can interfere with B12, folate and ferritin assays; tell us if you take them.
Sample type and report time
Two tubes from one prick: a purple-top EDTA tube for the CBC, smear and reticulocytes, and a serum tube for iron, ferritin, B12 and folate. Morning home sample collection suits this profile well. Blood counts are usually ready the same day; vitamin and ferritin results the same day or the next day.
Understanding your results
Patterns matter more than single numbers. Low ferritin with small, pale red cells is typical of iron deficiency. Large red cells with low B12 or folate point the other way. Normal or high ferritin with low iron can be seen in anaemia of chronic disease, where an ESR may also be raised. Small red cells with normal iron may lead to thalassaemia testing.
Each test has its own range on the report, and those printed ranges are the ones that apply; they vary by lab and method. Your doctor reads the result alongside your symptoms and other tests.
FAQ
Do I need to fast for an anaemia profile?
Yes, for best results. An overnight fast and a morning sample make the iron results more reliable.
Is ferritin the same as iron?
No. Ferritin reflects stored iron; serum iron reflects what's in circulation right now. Ferritin can also rise with infection or inflammation.
Where can I get an anemia profile test near me in Banur?
If you are looking for an anemia profile test near me in Banur, Alpha Laboratory on M.C. Road opens at 7 am for fasting samples.
What does the anaemia profile cost?
The price depends on which tests are included. Call or WhatsApp for the current price.
Book at Alpha Laboratory
Book an early slot for your anemia profile test so you don't fast longer than needed. Call 8872524007, WhatsApp us, or ask for a home visit through the contact page.