Total iron-binding capacity (TIBC) and transferrin test

The blood’s ability to attach itself to the iron and transfer/ transport it around the body is measured by the total iron-binding capacity (TIBC). In other words, this laboratory test measures the blood’s capacity to bind iron with transferrin.

A transferrin test is similar to TIBC, transferrin refers to a protein produced by the liver, and it facilitates the absorption of iron into the blood. TIBC is associated with the amount of transferrin in your blood which is available to attach to iron. TIBC test evaluates how efficiently transferrin carries iron through your body.

Since the liver produces transferrin, liver disease makes your TIBC level low. Supposedly, you have iron deficiency, the iron level in your body will be high, but your TIBC will be low or normal.

Medically, TIBC and transferrin are 2 different tests. However, the common factor is that both tests measure the same thing. Pathkind labs offer both kinds of tests with assured accurate results. Depending on the results, our specialists give you appropriate instructions and measures to follow.

How is this test done?

In TIBC or transferrin test, blood is drawn from your body and the maximum amount of iron that your blood can carry is measured, which in a way measures the transferrin as transferrin acts as the dynamic carrier. Instead of TIBC, people also opt for a direct Transferrin test that measures transferrin in the blood directly.

Both these tests are done at Pathkind Pathology labs effectively manned with highly trained and qualified specialists using the latest technology. Your comfort, satisfaction, and security are what Patkind values.

These tests are usually done when there are chances of diseases like anemia, iron deficiency or iron-deficiency anemia. These tests help to diagnose iron-deficiency or iron overload.

When is this test done?

• When a person has low hemoglobin on a Complete Blood Count (CBC)
• When your doctor suspects that your either have iron-overload or iron-deficiency

When the body suspects insufficient levels of iron, the level of iron in the blood drops. This condition may occur when:

• Not enough iron is consumed/ received in the body (through food, supplements, etc.)
• one is pregnant, the to-be mother requires more iron content.
• Celiac diseases occur i.e. when the body cannot absorb iron from the food eaten.

One of the most common conditions caused due to insufficient levels of stored or circulating iron is iron deficiency anemia. In the initial stage, no physical signs or symptoms are visible; however, as the deficiency progresses symptoms such as weakness, fatigue, headaches, dizziness, and pale skin may appear.

• On the other hand, too much iron is also not healthy for one’s body. The body’s iron storage increases when more iron is absorbed by the blood. Over time, it may lead to the accumulation of iron compounds in organs, eventually leading to organ failure or dysfunction, eg diseases like hemochromatosis. High iron levels may lead to symptoms like weakness, pain in joints, low sex drive, abdominal pain, hair loss, abrupt weight loss or irregular heart rhythm.
• If you notice any of these symptoms, don’t panic or worry, visit any nearby Pathkind laboratory, and our doctors will help you to diagnose the condition. We, at Pathkind, utilize advanced technologies, assure you top-notch assistance, and help with apt instructions and diagnosis.
• In case of these conditions being left untreated or ignored, you may face serious health conditions like liver disease, heart attack, heart failure, bone problems, diabetes, hormone disorders, etc.
• It is necessary to take corrective measures at the right time. Pathkind Labs helps you to do just that. We guide you to take the required necessary steps that will help you avoid complications in the future.

Requirements for a TIBC or Transferrin test:

• May be asked to have your blood drawn in the morning, after observing a fast for 12 hours. Other special or required instructions will be given to you by our practitioners before you undergo the test.
• Binding test/ Transferrin test results.
• The results of TIBC vary from laboratory to laboratory. However, the normal range is 240 to 450 micrograms per decilitre (mcg/dL)
• The value below 240 mcg/dL means there’s a high level of iron in your blood, whereas TIBC value above 450 mcg/dL means a low level of iron in the blood. Both conditions should be treated at an early stage so that they don’t cause any serious complications.

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