TRANSFERIN SATURATION

Transferrin is the iron transport Protein in Serum. In cases of iron deficiency, the degree of Transferrin Saturation appears to be an extremely sensitive indicator of functional iron depletion. The Ferritin levels are depressed when there is a deficiency of storage iron. In sideropenia, an Iron deficiency can be excluded if the serum transferrin concentration is low, as in inflammation or less commonly, in cases of ascorbic acid deficiency. In screening for hereditary Hemochromatosis, Transferrin Saturation provides a better indication of the homozygous genotype than does Ferritin. Transferrin Saturation in conjunction with Ferritin gives a conclusive prediction of the exclusion of Iron overloading in patients with Chronic Liver disease. Ref. value: 200-360 mg/dL. Serum iron, total iron-binding capacity (TIBC), and percent Saturation are useful only in screening for Chronic iron overload diseases, particularly hereditary Hemochromatosis. Although serum Iron, TIBC, and percent saturation are widely used for the diagnosis of iron deficiency, serum ferritin is a much more sensitive and reliable means of demonstrating iron deficiency. In hereditary hemochromatosis, serum iron is usually above 150 mcg/dL and percent saturation exceeds 60%. In advanced iron overload states, the percent saturation often exceeds 90%.

This Test is advised for following analysis:

• Diagnosing Iron Deficiency: Low Transferrin Saturation indicates insufficient iron stores in the body, which can help diagnose iron deficiency anemia.
• Identifying Iron Overload: Elevated Transferrin Saturation levels can suggest iron overload disorders, such as Hemochromatosis where the body absorbs and stores excessive iron.
• Monitoring Iron Therapy: It helps track the effectiveness of iron supplementation or treatments for conditions like Anemia.
• Assessing Iron Metabolism: The test provides a clearer picture of how efficiently the body is using available iron guiding decisions on further testing or treatment.

If you have following symptoms or conditions, then Transferrin Saturation Test is advised:

• Chronic Fatigue/tiredness
• Dizziness
• Weakness
• Headaches
• Pale skin (pallor)

The Price of an Transferrin Saturation Test is Rs. 750. However, cost of the test may fluctuate depending on following factors:

• Other tests advised along with Transferrin Saturation Test
• Offers or discounts
• Empanelment of the patient