R2* relaxation (R2*)
Stomach and gut healthA magnetic resonance parameter sensitive to iron concentration in tissues.
Elevated hepatic R2* values suggest increased iron deposition in the liver (hemochromatosis or hemosiderosis).
Reference range
115
Normal
High
s^-1
Source: Ahead Health benchmark
Reference ranges may vary between labs and assays. Always interpret results with your healthcare provider.
Why this matters
R2 reveals early iron accumulation in the liver before symptoms appear. Elevated levels increase the risk of liver damage, diabetes, and heart complications. Detecting iron overload early allows dietary, medical, and lifestyle interventions to prevent organ damage.
How this connects to other biomarkers
- R2\* is an MRI marker of liver iron content — R2\* greater than 70 s⁻¹ (at 1.5T) suggests iron overload and corresponds to elevated Liver Iron Content (LIC).
- Elevated R2\* alongside high Ferritin and Transferrin Saturation confirms hereditary hemochromatosis (inherited iron overload disease) or transfusion-related iron overload.
- Elevated R2\* is a key indication for blood-removal therapy (phlebotomy) or iron-chelation drugs depending on the underlying cause.
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