Iron, Serum and TIBC (Total Iron Binding Capacity) LabCorp

The Iron and Total Iron-binding Capacity (TIBC) test measures the amount of iron in the bloodstream. This test includes percent of saturation; serum iron; total iron binding capacity; and unsaturated iron binding capacity. The total iron-binding capacity (TIBC) test looks at how well the iron moves through your body. Iron is an essential mineral that the body needs to remain healthy. Iron is used by the body to make hemoglobin, the protein in red blood cells (RBCs) that carries oxygen throughout the body. If there isn't enough iron in the body, there may not be enough hemoglobin. This condition is called iron deficiency anemia. Iron in your body is carried, or bound, mainly to a protein made by your liver called transferrin. The TIBC test is based on certain proteins, including transferrin, found in the blood. Transferrin levels are almost always measured along with iron and TIBC.