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Total iron binding capacity

• Overview
• Risks
• Results

Alternative Names:

TIBC

Normal Values:

• Iron: 60-170 mcg/dl
• TIBC: 240-450 mcg/dl
• Transferrin saturation: 20-50%

Note: mcg/dl = micrograms per deciliter

What abnormal results mean:

Higher-than-normal TIBC may mean:

• Iron deficiency anemia
• Pregnancy (late)

Lower-than-normal TIBC may mean:

• Cirrhosis
• Hemolytic anemia
• Hypoproteinemia
• Pernicious anemia
• Sickle cell anemia
• Inflammation
• Malnutrition
• Liver disease

Other conditions under which the test may be done:

• Anemia of chronic disease

References:

McPherson RA, Pincus MR. Henry's Clinical Diagnosis and Management by Laboratory Methods . 21st ed. Philadelphia, Pa: Saunders, 2006.

Rakel RE. Textbook of Family Practice . 6th ed. Philadelphia, Pa: Saunders, 2001.

• Review Date: 3/13/2007
• Reviewed By: Mark Levin, M.D., Hematologist and Oncologist, Newark, NJ. Review provided by VeriMed Healthcare Network.

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