Serum Transferrin

Note: Pregnancy and use of oral contraceptive cause increase in transferrin levels

Comments: Transferrin is a transport protein which transfers ferric iron from iron stores to bone marrow. In response to short term iron deficiency, transferrin levels rise markedly to twice the normal levels or higher. An elevated level on electrophoresis can have the appearance of a paraprotein in cases of severe iron deficiency. Administration of iron to deficient patients increases the saturation followed by return of transferrin to normal level. Chronic saturation of transferrin occurs in Idiopathic hemachromatosis and Transfusional hemosiderosis. In severe cases of Protein losing nephropathy, transferrin is lost from the circulation in the urine carrying iron with it, thus leading to Hypochromic anemia. Simultaneous measurement of transferrin with ferritin helps to differentiateanemia due to iron deficiency and chronic inflammation.

Transferrin Level
Interpretation
Normal Range (typically 200-360 mg/dL)
Indicates normal levels of transferrin in the blood
Increased Levels
High transferrin levels may be seen in conditions such as iron deficiency anemia or chronic inflammatory disorders. It can also be a response to certain medications or acute liver damage. Further evaluation is necessary to determine the underlying cause.
Decreased Levels
Low transferrin levels may suggest iron overload disorders such as hereditary hemochromatosis or chronic liver disease. It can also be seen in malnutrition, protein deficiency, or chronic kidney disease. Additional testing is required to identify the underlying cause.