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Total Iron-Binding Capacity (TIBC)

Iron Distribution in the Body
The human body contains approximately 3 to 3.5 grams of iron. Around 2.5 grams of this iron is found in red blood cells or their precursors within the bone marrow. In contrast, the plasma carries only about 2.5 milligrams of iron at any given time.

Iron Transport and Transferrin
Iron in the bloodstream is transported as Fe(III), which binds to apotransferrin—a plasma protein. This iron-protein complex is known as transferrin. Typically, only about one-third of transferrin’s iron-binding sites are occupied by Fe(III).

Understanding UIBC and TIBC
The remaining capacity of transferrin to bind more iron is referred to as the Unsaturated Iron-Binding Capacity (UIBC). When combined with serum iron, UIBC gives the Total Iron-Binding Capacity (TIBC), representing the maximum iron amount that transferrin can carry.

Iron Levels and Anaemia Diagnosis
TIBC values change in response to various iron-related disorders:

In iron deficiency anaemia, TIBC is elevated while transferrin saturation drops to 15% or less.

In cases of chronic disease anaemia, cancer, or infections, both serum iron and TIBC are typically low.

Private Iron Panel Testing in Slough and Surrounding Areas
Comprehensive iron studies including TIBC, UIBC, transferrin saturation, and serum iron are available in Slough, Windsor, Maidenhead, and nearby Berkshire locations. These tests assist in the accurate diagnosis of iron deficiency, chronic disease anaemia, and iron metabolism disorders.