Transferrin Test
Transferrin Test
Transferrin test is done to measure the amount of protein transferrin present in the blood. Transferrin is produced by the liver and has a high affinity for iron ions.
This test makes it easier to measure the body’s ability to transport iron in the blood and its reach to the body’s tissues such as the spleen, liver, etc. An overload of iron leads to a condition called hemochromatosis, and a lack of iron leads to a condition called anemia.
Transferrin test is also known as Iron Binding Capacity, IBC, Serum Iron-Binding Capacity, Siderophilin, TIBC, UIBC, Transferrin saturation
Symptoms of Anemia
Extreme tiredness or weakness
Lack of stamina
Pale skin color
Dizziness
Irritability
Headache
Shortness of breath during physical activity
Who should get tested?
Transferrin test is recommended in the following cases
Pregnant women
Women with heavy menstrual bleeding
Individuals suffering from anemia
People suffering from celiac disease e.g. Symptoms like chronic diarrhea
Test preparation:
This test requires a blood sample, which is taken by injecting a needle inside a vein in the arm and collected in a test tube or vial. Before taking this test, a person should be on a fast (no food or drink) for at least 8 to 12 hours. If you are on any medication, herbs, vitamins, or supplements, be sure to bring them to the attention of your healthcare provider before the test
Interpretation of results
Normal value (Unisex-across all age groups): 170-370mg/dl
High levels of transferrin indicate low iron levels in the blood. There could be a high possibility of iron deficiency anemia, and a low transferrin level means that the body is absorbing more iron than is required
FAQs
What are the risks associated with the transferrin test?
This test does not involve any potential risks. However, you may suffer from a slight stinging pain at the site of needle insertion. This usually lasts for a couple of minutes and resolves on its own
What is the turnaround time (TAT) for transferrin test?
The results of this test are generally available within 2–3 working days after the sample collection is done
Under what situations is a transferrin test generally ordered?
Healthcare providers advise this test under the following circumstances:
·      If there is an iron overload in the blood, which happens due to iron accumulation.
·      If iron poisoning is suspected.
If children are suspected of accidental overdoses on vitamins or supplements containing iron
What causes insufficient iron content in the body?
Insufficient iron content is generally seen in a woman who is pregnant or has excessive menstrual bleeding. Other than this, if the food consumed is deficient in iron or if the body is unable to absorb iron from the diet (e.g., in the case of celiac disease), it results in insufficient iron content in the body
What medical conditions can affect my transferrin test levels?
Certain conditions, such as chronic iron deficiencies, chronic infections, uremia (an increase in blood urea levels), certain cancers (blood), nephrotic syndrome (too much protein leakage from blood into the urine), etc., can affect the test results of transferrin
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