Transferrin

What it measures

Measures transferrin, the main iron transport protein made by the liver. Used in iron assessment and sometimes as a marker of nutritional status.

Specimen and preparation

• Specimen: Serum
• Tube: Gold top

Reference range

Reference ranges differ between laboratories, methods and populations. Always use the range printed on your own lab report.

Causes of high values

• Iron deficiency
• Pregnancy, estrogen therapy

Causes of low values

• Inflammation (negative acute-phase protein)
• Malnutrition
• Liver disease
• Nephrotic syndrome
• Iron overload

Method

Immunoturbidimetry or nephelometry

Good to know

TIBC (µg/dL) is approximately transferrin (mg/dL) × 1.25–1.4, depending on method.

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