Measurement of total iron binding capacity (TIBC) is used to differentially diagnose anemia and investigate chronic conditions of iron overload, such as hereditary hemochromatosis. It is also an essential indicator of the nutritional status of iron in the body.
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Iron is an essential element for many processes in the body, including oxygen transport to tissues, hemoglobin and myoglobin transporting oxygen chromoproteins, and enzymes such as xanthine oxidase and peroxidase. Transferrin is an iron-carrying plasma protein (siderophylin) formed in the liver and has a half-life of 7-10 days. Transferrin can bind more than its weight to iron (1 g can carry 1.43 g of iron). The iron transferrin saturation is between 20 and 45% in regular patients. Saturation of iron transferrin fluctuates daily, with a peak in the morning and a low point in the early evening.
Total Iron Binding Capacity (TIBC) is the maximum iron bound to transferrin.
In this assay, iron is added to the patient's serum (in vitro) until all transferrin binding sites are iron-bound. The excess iron is then removed, and the total amount of residual (bound) iron is measured, assessing the ability of transferrin to bind iron.
Possible Interpretations of Pathological Values
- Increase: Iron deficiency anemia, pregnancy. Medications: Iron salts, oral contraceptives.
- Decrease: Cirrhosis, dysmenorrhea, hemochromatosis, bleeding, hepatitis, hypothyroidism, kwashiorkor, chronic anemia, myocardial infarction, neoplasm, nephrosis, pernicious anemia, thalassemia, uremia. Medications: ACTH, asparaginase, chloramphenicol, corticotropin, cortisone, dextran, steroids, testosterone.
Important Note
Laboratory test results are the most critical parameter for diagnosing and monitoring all pathological conditions. Between 70 to 80% of diagnostic decisions are based on laboratory tests. Correctly interpreting laboratory results allows a doctor to distinguish "healthy" from "diseased."
Laboratory test results should not be interpreted from the numerical result of a single analysis. Test results should be analyzed based on each case and family history, clinical findings, and the results of other laboratory tests and information. Your physician should explain the importance of your test results.
At Diagnostiki Athinon, we answer any questions you may have about the test you perform in our laboratory and contact your doctor to ensure you receive the best possible medical care.
