The last cause of hyperhemoglobinemia we’ll be discussing is the build-up of iron in the body. This iron build-up may be due to a poor elimination system, high dietary intake of iron, increased absorption of iron or increased breakdown of red blood cells (which might come from repeated transfusions), or from a genetic disorder of iron metabolism, known as hemochromatosis, which causes the body to absorb too much iron from the intestinal tract.

A chart with cut-off levels for hyperhemoglobinemia is posted in your lab area. Please check this chart and your agency's policy manual to get a better understanding of normal ranges. Persistently high values are serious and should be referred to the nutritionist. As always, you’ll have your supervisor or another WIC staff member to help.

Next up are some additional requirements for testing blood.