About Iron Binding Capacity (TIBC)
Total Iron Binding Capacity (TIBC) is a blood test that measures the blood's capacity to bind iron with transferrin, the main protein that binds iron. It provides an indirect measure of the body's iron stores and helps in diagnosing iron deficiency anemia or iron overload disorders.
Reference Values
Optimal Range
240.0 - 450.0 µg/dL
Women's Optimal Range
250.0 - 450.0 µg/dL
Elite Value
Not specified
Health Implications
High
Elevated levels may indicate iron deficiency anemia, where the body is unable to utilize enough iron due to insufficient intake or absorption.
Low
Low levels may be associated with conditions like hemochromatosis, where excessive iron absorption leads to tissue damage, or chronic illnesses affecting protein production.
Symptoms
High
May include fatigue, pale skin, shortness of breath, restlessness, headaches, and an increased heart rate.
Low
Can include dizziness, weakness, brittle or spoon-shaped nails, frequent infections, fatigue, and cold hands and feet.
Lifestyle Factors
Specimen Type
Testing Methods
Also Known As
Scientific Sources
- en, Y., Wan, J., Xia, H., Li, Y., Xu, Y., Lin, H., & Iftikhar, H. (2020). Total iron binding capacity (TIBC) is a potential biomarker of left ventricular remodelling for patients with iron deficiency anaemia. BMC Cardiovascular Disorders, 20, 4.
- vkota, B. P. (2022). Iron-Binding Capacity. In S. Devaraj (Ed.), Medscape.
- eveland Clinic. (2023). TIBC (Total Iron-Binding Capacity) Test: What It Is & Results.
- atPearls. (2023). Iron-Binding Capacity. In StatPearls.