TIBC reflects the amount of transferrin available to bind iron in the blood.

It is an indirect measure of transferrin levels and helps assess iron status.

Clinical uses include:

Diagnosing iron deficiency anemia.

Differentiating between iron deficiency and anemia of chronic disease.

Evaluating iron overload conditions (e.g., hemochromatosis).

Monitoring nutritional status and chronic illness.

Often performed alongside serum iron, ferritin, and transferrin saturation tests for a complete iron profile.

Analyte: Total Iron Binding Capacity (µg/dL).

Normal Range (varies by lab): ~240–450 µg/dL.

Abnormal Findings:

High TIBC: Suggests iron deficiency anemia (more transferrin available due to low iron).

Low TIBC: Seen in anemia of chronic disease, malnutrition, liver disease, or iron overload.

Clinical Use:

Provides a marker of transferrin activity and iron transport capacity.

Helps guide diagnosis and management of anemia and iron disorders.

Supports hematology, internal medicine, and nutrition evaluations.