What is the transferrin saturation test? Why is the test done? Everything around this, that you should know, in this post, and of course our doctors are always there to help you. Just fill in your details in the form below and we will answer all your questions for FREE!
What is Transferrin?
Transferrin is the protein found in the blood which binds to iron and conveys it throughout the body.
Also Read: Folate, red cells Test
What is transferrin saturation?
Transferrin saturation is calculated as a percentage of serum iron divided by the total iron binding capacity of the total amount of transferrin present in the blood.
This test is usually done to check health conditions like anaemia.
What is the reference range of transferrin saturation?
- In males: 20-50%
- Females: 15-50%
Why do I need to check a transferrin saturation?
Transferrin saturation is done in health conditions like iron deficiency anaemia and hemochromatosis.
What does a lower level of transferrin saturation indicate?
The lower level of transferrin saturation indicates iron deficiency anaemia.
What symptoms indicate low transferrin saturation?
Low transferrin saturation means a low level of iron in the circulation.
- Easily get tired
- Weakness
- Dizziness
- Fainting
- Pale skin
- Shortness of breath
- Irritability
- Headache
What are the health concerns with low transferrin saturation?
These are:
- Uremia
- Tissue inflammation
- Nephrotic syndrome
- Chronic iron deficiency
- Extensive malignancy
What symptoms indicate high transferrin saturation?
A value above 45% is considered to be high.
High transferrin saturation means iron is overloaded in the blood. Symptoms can vary from person to person.
- Joints pain
- Abdominal cramps
- Diabetes
- Low libido
- Weakness
- Impotence
- Heart failure
- Liver failure
- Discolouration of skin
- Confusion of mind
What are the health concerns with high transferrin saturation?
These are:
- Sideroblastic anemia
- Megaloblastic anemia
- States with iron overload
What other test needs to be done along with the transferrin saturation?
- CBC
- Serum ferritin
- Total iron binding capacity
- Stool test
How to manage transferrin saturation?
To maintain normal parameters foods which are good sources of iron are recommended. Some of the foods which are good sources of iron include:
- Green leafy vegetables
- Red meat
- Seeds
- Pulses
- Nuts
- Dried fruit
Also, iron absorption from plant-based food is better with vitamin C so drinking orange juice with fortified cereal breakfast is recommended. Avoiding tea which interferes with iron absorption is also recommended.
