This test checks for iron levels and the body's capacity to bind iron, helping to identify conditions like anemia or hemochromatosis. It helps doctors tell the difference between low iron levels due to a lack of iron and those caused by other health issues. The test looks at how much iron is attached to a protein called transferrin and calculates how much transferrin could carry iron if it was fully loaded. This gives doctors important information about iron in the body, which is crucial for diagnosing conditions related to too little or too much iron.
What patients is this test right for?
This test might be recommended if you show signs of having either too much or too little iron.
Low Iron Symptoms:
- Tiredness
- Pale skin
- Weakness
- Feeling cold
- Frequent illnesses
- Swollen tongue
- Developmental delays in children