Iron, Total and Total Iron Binding Capacity
Use
Serum iron quantification is useful in confirming the diagnosis of iron‑deficiency anemia or hemochromatosis. The measurement of total iron binding capacity (TIBC) in the same specimen may facilitate the clinician’s ability to distinguish between low serum iron levels caused by iron deficiency from those related to inflammatory or neoplastic disorders. TIBC is an indirect measurement of transferrin concentration, expressed as an iron measurement; percent saturation is derived by dividing serum iron by TIBC, typically low in iron deficiency and high in iron storage diseases.
Special Instructions
Not provided.
Limitations
Not provided.
Methodology
Automated Analyzer (Clinical Chemistry)
Biomarkers
% Saturation (calculated)
AnalyteIron, Total
AnalyteTotal Iron Binding Capacity
Analyte
Result Turnaround Time
2-3 days
Related Documents
For more information, please review the documents below
Specimen
Serum
Volume
1 mL
Minimum Volume
0.5 mL
Container
Plastic screw‑cap vial
Collection Instructions
Samples should be taken in the morning from fasting patients
Patient Preparation
Fasting state; morning draw preferred
Causes for Rejection
Hemolysis; anticoagulants other than heparin
Stability Requirements
| Temperature | Period |
|---|---|
| Room Temperature | 6 days |
| Refrigerated | 7 days |
| Frozen | 28 days |
Other tests from different labs that may be relevant