Testing of total iron binding capacity of transferrin
(TIBC)
Test performed in the diagnosis and differentiation of anemia. TIBC is the
the total amount of iron that can be bound to transferrin.
Transferrin is the main carrier protein for iron in the blood
TIBC reflects its concentration. TIBC is not subject to diurnal fluctuations
as do iron concentrations; however, there is an increase in the
TIBC index during pregnancy and while taking oral contraceptives
contraceptives.
An increase in TIBC occurs in sideropenic anemia,
reduction in anemias of chronic diseases.
It is observed in anemia of chronic diseases