Transferrin iron saturation

TRANSFERRIN IRON SATURATION (fasted, serum)

Transferrin iron saturation (TrFeSat) is a calculated value that indicates the ability of the body to carry iron in the blood. It is calculated by placing the iron and transferrin levels in the serum into a specific formula: TrFeSat = 3.825 x fS-Fe / fS-Transf. Transferrin iron saturation in adults is typically approximately 30 %. Elevated iron saturation (above 55–60 %) may indicate hemochromatosis, refractory or aplastic anemia or hypothyroidism. Reduced iron saturation and an elevated transferrin level indicate an iron deficiency, although iron saturation within the reference range does not rule out mild iron deficiency.

Reference ranges:

• Adults: 15–50 %
• Optimal: 24–40 %

Transferrin iron saturation in the optimal range is associated with the lowest risk of all-cause mortality.