What i being tested?
Iron tests are used to assess iron levels in the blood. Total iron and iron binding capacity tests can help diagnose iron deficiency anemia, while the percent saturation calculation can help determine if there is too much or too little iron in the blood.
Reference Range
The Iron and Total Iron Binding Capacity (TIBC) blood test provides valuable information about the levels of iron in the body. The test measures the levels of two important markers - iron and iron-binding capacity - in the blood.
Iron, Total levels in the blood vary depending on age and sex. In males, levels should be between 32-112 mcg/dL for infants less than 1 month old, 27-164 mcg/dL for those between 4-19 years old, and 50-180 mcg/dL for those aged 30 years and above. In females, levels should be between 29-127 mcg/dL for infants less than 1 month old, 25-164 mcg/dL for those between 4-19 years old, and 45-160 mcg/dL for those aged 50 years and above.
Iron Binding Capacity levels in the blood also vary by age and sex. In males, levels should be between 94-232 mcg/dL for infants less than 1 month old, 271-448 mcg/dL for those between 1-19 years old, and 250-425 mcg/dL for those aged 20 years and above. In females, levels should be between 89-236 mcg/dL for infants less than 1 month old, 271-448 mcg/dL for those between 1-19 years old, and 250-450 mcg/dL for those aged 20 years and above.
The test also measures % Saturation, which indicates how much iron-binding capacity is being used. The normal range for % Saturation is 20-50%.
Test Description
What is the Iron & Total Iron Binding Capacity (TIBC) Blood Test?
The Iron & Total Iron Binding Capacity (TIBC) blood test is a simple blood test that measures the total amount of iron that can be carried in the blood and how efficiently the body is using iron. The test measures the amount of iron bound to transferrin and the amount of iron that would appear in the blood if all the transferrin were saturated with iron.
Why should you get an Iron & Total Iron Binding Capacity (TIBC) blood test?
Iron is an essential mineral for the body, and it plays a crucial role in the production of hemoglobin, which is responsible for carrying oxygen to all parts of the body. There are several reasons why you may want to consider getting an Iron & TIBC blood test.
Firstly, if you are experiencing symptoms such as fatigue, weakness, shortness of breath, or dizziness, it could be an indication of anemia, which is a condition caused by a lack of iron in the body. Secondly, if you are at risk of iron deficiency due to certain medical conditions, such as celiac disease, Crohn's disease, or chronic kidney disease, getting this test can help detect any deficiencies early on. Additionally, the TIBC measurement can help distinguish between low serum iron levels caused by iron deficiency from those related to inflammatory neoplastic disorders. Lastly, if you are pregnant, your healthcare provider may recommend getting an Iron & TIBC blood test to monitor your iron levels throughout your pregnancy.
What happens if you don't get an Iron & Total Iron Binding Capacity (TIBC) blood test?
If you don't get an Iron & TIBC blood test done, you may not know if you have an iron deficiency or if you are at risk of developing anemia. Iron deficiency can lead to a range of complications such as fatigue, weakened immune system, and developmental delays in children. Anemia, if left untreated, can cause severe fatigue and weakness, shortness of breath, and even heart problems in severe cases.
What will you find out from an Iron & Total Iron Binding Capacity (TIBC) blood test?
By getting an Iron & TIBC blood test, you can find out your iron levels and TIBC, which can help detect any iron deficiencies early on. The test can also help diagnose iron-deficiency anemia or hemochromatosis. The percent saturation is calculated by dividing the serum iron by the TIBC, which gives the actual amount of saturated transferrin. The percent saturation is low in iron deficiency and high in iron storage diseases.
What can you do with the information from an Iron & Total Iron Binding Capacity (TIBC) blood test?
With this information, you can take the necessary steps to increase your iron intake through diet or supplements. In some cases, your healthcare provider may recommend iron infusion therapy to quickly boost your iron levels.
In conclusion, an Iron & Total Iron Binding Capacity (TIBC) blood test is a simple and easy way to check your iron levels and detect any deficiencies early on. If you are experiencing symptoms of anemia, have a medical condition that puts you at risk of iron deficiency, or are pregnant, talk to your healthcare provider about getting this test done.