Understanding Lab Tests for Iron-Refractory Iron Deficiency Anemia (IRIDA)
Written by Private MD Labs Medical Writing Team • Last Updated: September 8, 2025
Iron-Refractory Iron Deficiency Anemia (IRIDA) is a rare genetic disorder characterized by iron deficiency anemia that does not respond adequately to oral iron supplementation and shows only partial response to intravenous iron therapy. This condition requires specialized laboratory testing to distinguish it from other forms of iron deficiency anemia.
Recommended Test
Iron, Serum
This test measures the amount of iron circulating in the blood and is essential for diagnosing IRIDA. Patients with this rare condition characteristically show low serum iron levels even when iron stores in the body are normal or elevated, creating a unique diagnostic pattern that helps distinguish IRIDA from other types of iron deficiency anemia.
2907 reviews
The Role of Blood Testing in IRIDA Diagnosis
IRIDA diagnosis relies heavily on blood tests that reveal a characteristic pattern: low serum iron levels despite normal or elevated iron stores in the body. This paradoxical finding, combined with poor response to oral iron therapy, helps healthcare providers identify this rare condition and differentiate it from typical iron deficiency anemia.
Understanding IRIDA Test Results
In IRIDA, serum iron testing typically reveals persistently low iron levels that fail to improve with standard oral iron supplementation. This finding, along with clinical history of iron supplement resistance, helps healthcare providers recognize this rare genetic condition and pursue appropriate treatment strategies, which may include intravenous iron therapy or other specialized interventions.
Important Considerations
The information here is for educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice. IRIDA is a rare condition that requires specialized medical evaluation and management. Always consult with a healthcare provider experienced in hematologic disorders for proper diagnosis and treatment.
