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An
essential element enabling the oxygen-carrying capacity
of hemoglobin in red blood cells. A large portion
of iron in the body is found in hemoglobin, muscle
and other tissues, while some of the remaining iron
is bound to an iron-transporting serum protein called
transferrin. Tests to measure iron are performed
to detect and evaluate iron-deficiency anemias or
abnormally high levels of iron found in hemochromatosis
(excess iron deposits throughout the body). |
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