Transferrin, Serum
Use
Transferrin is the primary plasma iron transport protein, crucial for evaluating conditions such as iron overload diseases and iron deficiency which can be a cause of anemia. It binds ferric iron (Fe 3+) strongly at physiological pH, keeping iron nonreactive in circulation and delivering it to cells with transferrin receptors. Its concentration in the blood reflects the body's iron status and can be altered depending on iron requirements and reserves.
Special Instructions
For test orders not submitted electronically, complete the Benign Hematology Test Request Form (T755) and send it with the specimen. Ensure the specimen is centrifuged within 2 hours of collection and serum is aliquoted into a plastic vial before shipping.
Limitations
An elevated transferrin can also result from pregnancy or the use of oral contraceptives, while a low transferrin can occur due to malnutrition, inflammation, liver disease, or nephrotic syndrome. The degree of iron saturation should be considered alongside transferrin concentration for a more useful assessment of iron status, as transferrin alone is not a definitive marker of iron deficiency or overload.
FDA ApprovedNew York Approved
Methodology
Immunoassay (Immunoturbidimetric Assay)
Biomarkers
LOINC Codes
- 3034-6
- 3034-6
Result Turnaround Time
1-3 days
Related Documents
For more information, please review the documents below
Specimen
Serum
Volume
1 mL
Minimum Volume
0.5 mL
Container
Plastic vial
Collection Instructions
Centrifuge the specimen within 2 hours of collection. For serum gel tubes, aliquot serum into a plastic vial prior to shipment. For red-top tubes, aliquot the serum into a plastic vial immediately after centrifuging.
Causes for Rejection
Gross hemolysis: Reject; Gross lipemia: OK; Gross icterus: OK
Stability Requirements
| Temperature | Period |
|---|---|
| Room Temperature | 7 days |
| Refrigerated | 7 days |
| Frozen | 180 days |