TIBC
From Health Facts
Latest Edit: Hector 2014-03-21 (EDT)
See Also | Lab Tests |
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TIBC, or total iron-binding capacity is a measurement of all proteins available for binding mobile iron.[1]
Discussion
- Transferrin represents the largest quantity of iron-binding proteins.
- TIBC is therefore an indirect, yet accurate measurement of transferrin.
- TIBC is measured by adding excess iron to the patient's serum. This causes transferrin to become saturated and excess iron is removed. The remaining iron is then measured.
- Ferritin is not included in TIBC because it binds only stored iron.
Patient Preparation
- No fasting required.
- Factors which can cause increased levels
- Drug: fluorides and oral contraceptives
- Factors which can cause decreased levels
- Drugs: ACTH and chloramphenicol
Clinical Implications
High levels indicate:
- Estrogen therapy
- Pregnancy (late)
- Polycythemia vera
- Iron deficiency anemia
Low levels indicate:
- Malnutrition
- Hypoproteinemia
- Inflammatory diseases
- Cirrhosis
- Hemolytic anemia
- Pernicious anemia
- Sickle cell anemia
Associated Tests
References
- ↑ Pagana Kathleen D, Pagana Timothy J (2006) Mosby's Manual of Diagnostic and Laboratory Tests, Mosby.