Test for Iron Levels

I'm trying to find out which method, ideally a non-invasive type, is best to determine iron levels in the liver.  My Heme. dr. has been watching my ferritin levels for a while and I had an MRI scan of my liver a few years ago.  He has been advocating for me to have a liver biopsy, but since my ferritin level has usually been around the 300 range, I have declined.   As I mentioned in my earlier post, I went and saw a Thal. specialist at Yale University (Dr. Forget) who does feel I need some kind of follow-up to the initial MRI and he did mention the SQUID.  I did look at the Ferriscan site, but for some reason that website is no longer accessable.    My Heme. dr. has scheduled a follow-up MRI on Aug. 23.  I was hoping to find out if there is a better method before I have to go through the MRI scan again.

Joan

If you can have a SQUID exam, do so. It measures heart iron and is the definitive test for cardiac iron load. It is well worth the travel to have the SQUID done.

I will try to find out what has happened with the ferriscan site. I was at the site last week and it was fine.

So, you are saying that it measures both liver and heart iron levels?

Joan

SQUID can be used to test for both liver and heart iron concentrations. If your insurance will cover it, SQUID is a must.

I just checked the Ferriscan site and it was back up and running.

http://www.ferriscan.com/rh_findcentre--FindCentres