What is the TIBC (total iron-binding capacity) lab test?
TIBC (total iron-binding capacity) lab test measures the blood’s capacity to bind iron with transferrin. Transferrin is the main protein in blood that binds iron and transports it throughout the body.
Why is the TIBC (total iron-binding capacity) lab test done?
A TIBC test is done in order to diagnose conditions that cause abnormal iron levels and for monitoring iron levels when there are symptoms of iron deficiency or iron overload.
TIBC (total iron-binding capacity) lab test measures the capability of blood to bind iron with transferrin. Transferrin transports iron throughout the body by binding to it and this test analyzes how well can transferrin transport iron throughout the body.
Are there any risks associated with this test?
Some people experience soreness at the site where the needle was inserted and some might get a small bruise. However, any serious complications are extremely rare.
What does it mean if my TIBC is high?
A high TIBC indicates iron deficiency but TIBC may also be raised due to pregnancy and use of oral contraceptives.
What does it mean when your TIBC is low?
A low TIBC indicates hemolytic anaemia and hypoproteinemia.
Why is TIBC high in iron deficiency anaemia?
In iron deficiency anaemia the transferrin content is higher than the iron content which is why TIBC is raised.
What does high iron saturation mean in a blood test?
A high iron saturation means you have consumed too much iron, vitamin B6, or vitamin B12.
The normal range for TIBC (total iron-binding capacity) is 250mcg/dL to 450-mcg/dL.
Any value higher than 450mcg/dL indicates a low level of iron in the blood and any value lower than 250mcg/dL suggests a high level of iron in the blood.
This test is done in order to know about the body’s iron stores and to diagnose conditions that cause abnormal iron levels and for monitoring iron levels when there are symptoms of iron deficiency or iron overload.
