Serum Iron, Transferrin & Saturation

The serum iron, transferrin, and saturation test is a blood test that measures the levels of iron and transferrin in the blood, and calculates the percentage of transferrin that is saturated with iron. These tests can help evaluate an individual's iron status and diagnose iron deficiency anemia. Iron is an essential mineral that is necessary for the production of hemoglobin, the protein in red blood cells that carries oxygen throughout the body. Transferrin is a protein that binds to and transports iron in the blood. The serum iron, transferrin, and saturation test measures the levels of both iron and transferrin in the blood, as well as the percentage of transferrin that is saturated with iron. The serum iron, transferrin, and saturation test is typically ordered if an individual is experiencing symptoms of iron deficiency anemia, such as fatigue, weakness, and pale skin. It may also be ordered if an individual has a history of anemia, heavy menstrual periods, or a diet low in iron-rich foods. The serum iron, transferrin, and saturation test is a simple blood test that involves taking a sample of blood from a vein in the arm. The blood sample is then sent to a laboratory for analysis.

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