Iron Studies Test |#MTP|

Iron studies give results of four parameters i.e., serum iron, Total iron binding capacity (TIBC), transferrin saturation % & unsaturated iron binding capacity (UIBC). It is widely used for the diagnosis of Iron deficiency, anaemia due to chronic disease, iron overload diseases particularly Hemochromatosis and for workup of microcytic hypochromic anaemia.

• Serum iron is a measure of the amount of iron that is present in the blood. It is typically measured in micrograms of iron per deciliter of blood (mcg/dL).
• Transferrin is a blood plasma glycoprotein in charge of delivering ferric ions and is essential for iron metabolism. It delivers iron to several tissues, including the liver, spleen, and bone marrow, through the blood. The amount of iron in the blood that is linked to transferrin is revealed by the transferrin saturation test.
• Total iron-binding capacity (TIBC) is a parameter used to assess how strongly iron binds to transferrin and other blood proteins.
• TIBC is the sum of serum iron and UIBC.

Reasons for Undergoing the Iron Studies Test

The Iron Studies Test is a vital diagnostic tool that helps assess the body's iron levels. There are several key reasons why your healthcare provider might recommend this test:

• To diagnose iron deficiency anemia or iron overload conditions like hemochromatosis
• To investigate symptoms suggestive of iron imbalance, such as fatigue, weakness, or shortness of breath
• To monitor the effectiveness of treatment for iron-related disorders
• To screen high-risk groups, including pregnant women and individuals with chronic blood loss
• To differentiate between various causes of anemia and other conditions affecting iron levels

List of Parameters Considered During the Iron Studies Test

The Iron Studies Test evaluates several parameters to provide a comprehensive assessment of your body's iron status. These parameters include:

• Serum Iron: Measures the amount of iron circulating in your blood, indicating the current available iron for use by the body
• Serum Ferritin: Reflects the stored iron in your body, with low levels suggesting iron deficiency and high levels indicating iron overload or inflammation
• Total Iron-Binding Capacity (TIBC): Assesses the total capacity of transferrin to bind iron in the blood, with high levels often associated with low iron status
• Unsaturated Iron-Binding Capacity (UIBC): Measures the reserve capacity of transferrin not yet bound to iron, aiding in the calculation of TIBC and transferrin saturation
• Transferrin Saturation: Calculates the percentage of transferrin attached to iron, with high saturation (>30%) indicating iron overload and low saturation (<20%) suggesting iron deficiency