TIBC, UIBC & Transferring

Other names: Transferrin Saturation; Total Iron-Binding Capacity; Unsaturated Iron-Binding Capacity; Total Iron Saturation

The TIBC test measures the body’s ability to carry iron and therefore gives doctors an idea of a patient’s iron stores. The TIBC (total iron-binding capacity) is directly correlated with the amount of transferrin in the blood; transferring is a form of protein, which attaches to iron molecules and transports them into the blood plasma.

Why is the test done?

The test is done to assess the body’s iron stores; if a doctor suspects that a patient has too much or too little iron, they will usually order either this test or the transferrin test.

The test is usually ordered when a doctor suspects that a patient has anaemia, especially if other blood tests reveal that they have small or pale red blood cells. The test may also be ordered if a doctor suspects that a patient has too much iron in their body or the patient has a family history of haemochromotosis (commonly known as iron overload).

How is the test done?

The test is done by collecting and analysing a sample of the patient’s blood; a needle is inserted into a vein in the arm and the blood is drawn out into a syringe. Once the sample has been collected, it will be bottled, labelled with the patient’s name and sent to the laboratory for analysis.

What do the results of the test mean?

A high TIBC test result may indicate that the patient has iron deficiency. A low TIBC results may indicate that the patient has haemochromotosis, certain forms of anaemia, malnutrition or cirrhosis.

Taking the oral contraceptive pill may cause the result of the test to be higher, while taking medication, such as chloramphenicol, can decrease the result.

Specific Blood Tests

Blood Test Guide

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