Transferrin

Introduction

Transferrin is the main protein that binds to and transports iron around the body. Transferrin levels provide an indication of nutritional status, with increased levels associated with iron deficiency anemia. Transferrin levels are also elevated during pregnancy and with oral contraceptive use. Decreased transferrin can occur in renal disease and some liver diseases.

Pricing

$49

How to order a test

Synonyms

• Siderophilin

What is Included?

Measurement of transferrin levels by immunoturbidimetric assay.

Turnaround Time

1 – 3 business days
The turnaround time is not guaranteed. The average turnaround time is 1 – 3 business days from the date that the sample arrives at the laboratory. Shipping time for the sample is not included. Additional time is required if the case requires confirmatory or reflex testing, or if the sample is insufficient, or if a recollection is required.

Related Documents

Additional Information and Resources

» What are the symptoms of low iron?
» Is too much iron a health problem?
» Can I check my vitamin and mineral levels from home? ​

Preparation Before Specimen Collection

None

Specimen Type

Blood

Volume

50 μL in a microtainer

Container

Microtainer (regular blood tube)

Collection Method

This test requires a blood sample from a finger prick. All supplies for sample collection are provided in the kit.

1. First wash and dry hands. Warm hands aid in blood collection.
2. Clean the finger prick site with the alcohol swab and allow to air dry.
3. Use the provided lancet to puncture the skin in one quick, continuous and deliberate stroke.
4. Wipe away the first drop of blood.
5. Massage hand and finger to increase blood flow to the puncture site. Angle arm and hand downwards to facilitate blood collection on the fingertip.
6. Drip blood into the microtainer tube.
7. Dispose of all sharps safely and return sample to the laboratory in the provided prepaid return shipping envelope.

NOTES: Avoid squeezing or ‘milking’ the finger excessively. If more blood is required and blood flow stops, perform a second skin puncture on another finger. Do not touch the fingertip.

Specimen Storage

Maintain specimen at temperatures between 2°C and 30°C during storage and transport.

Specimen Stability

Blood samples can be refrigerated or kept at room temperature for up to 7 days.

Causes for Rejection

• Incorrect or incomplete patient identification
• Incorrect specimen collection
• Inappropriate storage and transport conditions
• Incorrect specimen volume
• Severe hemolysis

Purpose

To determine transferrin levels for the evaluation of iron status. High transferrin occurs in iron deficiency anemia

Limitations

• This report is not intended for use in medico-legal applications. 
• These results should be interpreted in conjunction with other laboratory and clinical information.
• Correct specimen collection and handling is required for optimal assay performance. 
• Interferences from medication or endogenous substances may affect results.

Methodology

Immunoturbidimetric (Alinity c Transferrin assay)

Reference Intervals

Males:
1 – 14 years: 186 – 388 mg/dL
15 – 60 years: 174 – 364 mg/dL
> 60 years: 163 – 344 mg/dL

Females:
1 – 14 years: 180 – 391 mg/dL
15 – 60 years: 180 – 382 mg/dL
> 60 years: 173 – 360 mg/dL

These reference ranges were obtained from the Alinity c Transferrin package insert. (Source: Ritchie RF, et al. Reference distributions for the negative acute-phase serum proteins, albumin, transferrin and transthyretin: a practical, simple and clinically relevant approach in a large cohort. J Clin Lab Anal. 1999;13(6):273-9.)