Test Results For:
Transferrin
Test Overview
- Test Name
-
Transferrin
- Test Code
- TRF
Short Description
Transferrin
Test Name
Transferrin
Test Code
TRF
Category
Biochemistry
TAT
Main Lab:
6
Hour(s)
Family Site:
<8hrs, <6hrs
Specimen(s)
1 x Venous blood - 5 mL Tube - Gold - SST-Serum Separator Tube
Specimen Type
SST-Serum Separator Tube
Specimen Format
Tube
Specimen Colour
Gold
Specimen Volume
5 mL
Sampling Order
2
Origin
Venous blood
Collection Time after baseline
-
Transport Temperature
15-25°C
Accepted Other Specimens
Lithium Heparin Plasma
TAT
Main Lab:
6
Hour(s)
Family Site:
<8hrs, <6hrs
Test Stability
Room Temp:
4 Month(s)
2–8°C:
8 Month(s)
Methodology
-
Specimen Type
SST-Serum Separator Tube
Other Type of Specimen Accepted
Lithium Heparin Plasma
Delay before pre-treatment
8
Transport temperature
15-25°C
Test stability at room temperature
4 Month(s)
Test stability at 2–8°C
8 Month(s)
Haemolysis interference
No
Clinical Interest
The transferrin test helps diagnose iron deficiency anemia by measuring the body's ability to transport iron. Elevated transferrin levels are typically seen in iron deficiency because the body produces more transferrin in an attempt to increase iron absorption.
Often performed alongside a serum iron test, the TIBC can provide additional information. High TIBC usually indicates low iron stores.
In conditions like hereditary hemochromatosis, where the body absorbs too much iron, transferrin levels can be used to monitor the effectiveness of treatments such as phlebotomy or chelation therapy.
Calculated from serum iron and TIBC, it helps assess the degree of iron overload. Elevated transferrin saturation levels are indicative of excess iron.
Clinical Information Required
-
Patient Collection Note
-
LOINC Code
674-6, 22674-6
Outwork
No