Total iron-binding capacity (TIBC) or sometimes transferrin iron-binding capacity is a medical laboratory test that measures the blood's capacity to bind iron with transferrin. It is performed by drawing blood and measuring the maximum amount of iron that it can carry, which indirectly measures transferrin since transferrin is the most dynamic carrier. TIBC is less expensive than a direct measurement of transferrin.
The TIBC should not be confused with the unsaturated iron-binding capacity or UIBC (LOINC 2501-5, 22753-8 & 35216-1). The UIBC is calculated by subtracting the serum iron from the TIBC.
Video Total iron-binding capacity
Interpretation
Taken together with serum iron and percent transferrin saturation clinicians usually perform this test when they are concerned about anemia, iron deficiency or iron deficiency anemia. However, because the liver produces transferrin, alterations in function (such as cirrhosis, hepatitis, or liver failure) must be considered when performing this test. It can also be an indirect test of liver function, but is rarely used for this purpose.
The percent transferrin saturation (i.e., the result of the formula of serum iron/TIBC x 100) can also be a useful indicator.
These examples demonstrate that to properly understand a value for TIBC, one also must know the serum iron, the percent transferrin saturation, and the individual clinical situation. In modern laboratory testings, serum ferritin levels are generally accepted as reliable single indicators of the presence of iron deficiency.
Maps Total iron-binding capacity
Usual values
Laboratories often use different units of measurement and "normal" may vary by population and the laboratory techniques used. Look at the individual laboratory reference values to interpret a specific test (for instance, your own). Example reference ranges are:
- Serum iron: Male 65-177 ?g/dL (11.6-31.7 ?mol/L); Female 50-170 ?g/dL (9.0-30.4 ?mol/L)
- TIBC: 250-370 ?g/dL (45-66 ?mol/L)
- Transferrin saturation: Male 20-50%; Female 15-50%
- Serum ferritin: Male 20-250 ?g/L, Female 15-150 ?g/L
?g/dL = micrograms per deciliter; ?mol/L = micromoles per litre.
References
External links
- TIBC, UIBC and Transferrin Saturation at Lab Tests Online
Source of article : Wikipedia
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