TRANSFERRIN, SERUM

Transferrin, Serum

What it is

The Transferrin, Serum test measures the amount of transferrin in the blood. Transferrin is a protein made in the liver that binds to iron and helps transport it throughout the body. It is also used to calculate Total Iron-Binding Capacity (TIBC), making it an important marker for iron metabolism, nutritional status, and liver function.

Uses

This test helps in the evaluation of iron status, diagnosis of iron-deficiency anemia, and differentiation from anemia of chronic disease. It is also used to assess nutritional status, monitor liver function, and is often ordered with serum iron, ferritin, and TIBC tests for a complete picture of iron metabolism.

Symptoms That May Lead to the Test

Doctors may recommend this test if you experience symptoms such as fatigue, weakness, pallor, shortness of breath, dizziness, poor wound healing, frequent infections, jaundice, swelling, or unexplained weight loss. It is also useful in evaluating liver disease and nutritional deficiencies.

Abnormal Results

High Transferrin: Commonly seen in iron-deficiency anemia, during pregnancy, or in women taking oral contraceptives.

Low Transferrin: Associated with anemia of chronic disease, liver disease (cirrhosis, hepatitis), malnutrition or protein deficiency, and nephrotic syndrome (protein loss in urine).

Risks

The test involves a routine blood draw with minimal risks. Mild pain, bruising, or bleeding may occur at the puncture site. Rarely, dizziness or infection may occur.