Transferrin

chart-icon

Take advantage of our packages

The Transferrin is included in test packages, which you can buy at a lower price.

Transferrin (Tf), a glycoprotein of 79.5 kDa, contains two homologous iron-binding domains, each of which binds one Fe3+. Transferrin transports iron in the blood stream and delivers it to various tissues, after binding to a specific receptor (TfR) on the cell surface. After binding to specific cell surface receptors, the ligands follow two different pathways:

1. some are degraded within the cells after dissociation from the receptors and

2. others are not degraded but exocytosed intact into the extracellular space.

This is the fate of Tf that leaves the iron within the cells in endocytosed vesicles and, as apotransferrin, comes back to the membrane.

More arrow
clock-icon

Awaiting result:

One day

syringe-icon

Collect material:

Blood

sun-icon

Prepare:

Learn more
Purpose of the test

The Transferrin test measures the amount of the protein transferrin in the blood. Transferrin is produced by the liver and plays a crucial role in transporting iron throughout the body. When the body's iron stores are low, the liver produces more transferrin to increase iron availability in the blood. This test provides insights into the body's iron supply and can help diagnose conditions affecting it.

Who Should Get Tested

Individuals displaying symptoms of anemia, especially iron-deficiency anemia, may need this test. Symptoms can include extreme fatigue, pale skin, dizziness, irritability, headaches, and shortness of breath. Anemia can arise from blood loss, poor iron absorption from food, or during pregnancy.

Blood Test Preparation Guidelines
Time of day
icon
It is recommended to schedule your appointment for blood tests in the morning hours between 7:00-10:00.
Fasting
icon
It is recommended to fast for approximately 12 hours before blood sampling. The last meal of the previous day should ideally be consumed around 6:00 p.m. On the day before the test, avoid heavy and fatty meals as well as alcohol.
Stay hydrated
icon
Drinking water prior to testing can help with sample collection.
Other factors
icon
Tests should not be performed after a sleepless night or intense physical activity. It is recommended to avoid exercise and stress immediately before blood collection and to not smoke. A short rest is recommended.
Medications and supplements:
icon
Blood samples should be collected before the morning dose. Some drugs can interfere with test results. Consult with your doctor whether you can delay your dose because of lab tests.
Biotin supplements:
icon
High doses of biotin supplements can affect test results, causing false elevation or reduction. It's recommended to avoid taking biotin for at least 72 hours before blood collection. If you are taking biotin, inform the personnel collecting the blood so that they can provide specific instructions.
Interpreting Test Results

Test results are provided in milligrams per deciliter (mg/dL) for transferrin and micrograms per deciliter (mcg/dL) for total iron-binding capacity (TIBC). Normal transferrin values range from 215 to 380 mg/dL. Elevated levels might indicate iron-deficiency anemia, while lower levels could suggest liver disease or other conditions. TIBC values between 250 to 450 mcg/dL are considered normal. Another metric, transferrin saturation, assesses the proportion of transferrin binding sites occupied by iron. Normal values range from 15% to 50%. Abnormal values in these tests can help diagnose various health conditions related to iron metabolism.

AI-Powered Insights and Expert Validation
Advanced AI Interpretation
Diagu's AI system represents a breakthrough in medical test analysis, employing state-of-the-art algorithms meticulously trained on a vast spectrum of authoritative medical literature and data. This system intricately analyses laboratory test results, extracting nuanced insights that might elude conventional methods. Our AI delves into complex interrelations between various health markers, offering a comprehensive understanding that supports accurate diagnosis and effective treatment planning. The foundation of our AI's analytical prowess lies in its extensive training, encompassing data from globally recognized medical journals, trusted healthcare databases, and breakthrough scientific studies. This ensures that every analysis is grounded in the latest and most comprehensive medical knowledge.
Expert Doctor Confirmation
While our AI provides deep analytical insights, the human touch remains indispensable. Every AI-generated interpretation is meticulously reviewed by experienced medical professionals, ensuring a harmonious blend of advanced technology and expert clinical judgment. This dual-layer approach guarantees that the insights provided are not only technologically sophisticated but also clinically relevant. Our medical experts ensure that the AI's interpretations align with current medical standards and practices, adding a layer of validation that only seasoned healthcare professionals can provide. This process reinforces the reliability of the test results, offering peace of mind to both patients and healthcare providers.
Language Model and Trusted Sources
At the core of Diagu's AI system is an advanced language model, engineered to transform complex medical data into clear, comprehensible, and informative descriptions. This model is adept at articulating detailed test analyses in a way that is accessible to both healthcare professionals and patients. The model's development involved the meticulous processing of high-quality sources, including reputable medical websites, renowned medical textbooks, and peer-reviewed research papers. This ensures that the language used in test descriptions is not only accurate and informative but also up-to-date with the latest medical findings and trends. By leveraging this rich tapestry of trusted sources, our AI system provides a deeper understanding of each test, fostering informed decision-making and enhanced patient care.