Total Iron Binding Capacity (TIBC) Test

The Total Iron Binding Capacity (TIBC) test is a blood test that is used to measure the amount of iron that can be bound to proteins in the blood. It is a common test that is used to help diagnose and monitor conditions such as iron deficiency anemia, hemochromatosis, and liver disease.

What is the TIBC Test?

The TIBC test measures the amount of iron that can be bound to proteins in the blood, such as transferrin. Transferrin is a protein that transports iron in the blood, and its levels can provide information about iron status in the body.

During the TIBC test, a healthcare provider will take a sample of blood from a vein in your arm. The blood is then sent to a laboratory for analysis.

How does the TIBC Test work?

The TIBC test measures the amount of iron that can be bound to proteins in the blood, such as transferrin. This is done by adding a measured amount of iron to the blood sample and measuring how much of it is bound to the proteins.

The test also measures the amount of transferrin in the blood, which can be used to calculate the total amount of iron that could be bound if all the transferrin was fully saturated with iron. This is known as the Total Iron Binding Capacity (TIBC).

What does the TIBC Test measure?

The TIBC test measures the amount of iron that can be bound to proteins in the blood, as well as the amount of transferrin in the blood. The results of the test can provide information about iron status in the body.

The TIBC test can help diagnose and monitor conditions such as iron deficiency anemia, hemochromatosis, and liver disease.

What are the Normal Values for the TIBC Test?

The normal range for TIBC is typically between 250 and 450 micrograms per deciliter (mcg/dL) of blood. However, the normal range may vary slightly depending on the laboratory that performs the test.

It is important to note that the normal range for TIBC can vary depending on a person’s age, sex, and other factors. Your healthcare provider will be able to provide more information about what your individual TIBC results mean.