Iron TIBC Ferritin Panel

Iron, TIBC, and Ferritin Panel 

The Iron, TIBC, and Ferritin Panel is a group of blood tests used to assess iron levels and storage in the body. These tests are helpful in diagnosing and monitoring iron deficiency anemia, iron overload disorders, and overall iron metabolism. 

1. What Is Included in the Panel? 

• Serum Iron – Measures the amount of circulating iron in the blood. 

• TIBC (Total Iron-Binding Capacity) – Reflects the blood’s capacity to transport iron, primarily through transferrin. 

• Transferrin Saturation – Calculated as (Serum Iron / TIBC) × 100; shows the percentage of transferrin bound with iron. 

• Ferritin – A protein that stores iron; reflects total body iron reserves. 

2. Why Is This Panel Performed? 

This panel is used to: 

• Diagnose iron deficiency or iron overload. 

• Differentiate types of anemia (e.g., iron-deficiency anemia vs. anemia of chronic disease). 

• Monitor iron levels in people with chronic diseases or on iron supplements. 

• Evaluate symptoms like fatigue, pallor, shortness of breath, or restless leg syndrome. 

3. Reference Ranges (Typical Adults) 

• Serum Iron: 60–170 µg/dL 

• TIBC: 240–450 µg/dL 

• Transferrin Saturation: 20–50% 

• Ferritin: 

  - Men: 24–336 ng/mL 

  - Women: 11–307 ng/mL 

4. Interpreting Results 

🔹 Low Iron + High TIBC + Low Ferritin: Suggests iron deficiency anemia. 

🔹 Low Iron + Normal/Low TIBC + Normal/High Ferritin: May indicate anemia of chronic disease. 

🔹 High Iron + Low TIBC + High Ferritin: Suggests iron overload (e.g., hemochromatosis). 

5. What Can Affect Iron Levels? 

• Recent iron intake (food or supplements) 

• Menstruation, pregnancy, or blood loss 

• Infections or inflammation (can increase ferritin) 

• Liver disease or chronic conditions 

6. How Is the Test Performed? 

• Blood is drawn from a vein, usually in the morning after fasting (for most accurate iron results). 

• Ferritin and TIBC are measured directly, while transferrin saturation is calculated. 

7. When to See a Doctor 

🚨 Speak to your healthcare provider if you: 

• Experience fatigue, weakness, or pale skin. 

• Have chronic illness or a history of anemia. 

• Are on iron supplements or at risk for iron overload. 

🔹 Key Takeaways 

✅ This panel helps diagnose and manage iron-related disorders. 

✅ Iron deficiency and overload can both lead to serious complications if untreated. 

✅ Results should always be interpreted in context of symptoms and other lab findings.