Vitamins & Nutrients
Transferrin Saturation
Vitamins & Nutrients
Percentage of transferrin carrying iron. Key indicator of iron status.
VAT-exempt medical service
Transferrin saturation is a calculated value that estimates the proportion of transferrin molecules carrying iron. Under normal conditions, about one-third of transferrin's binding capacity is used, with two-thirds held in reserve. A result that is significantly below or above this level can indicate iron deficiency or iron overload respectively. This marker is an essential part of a comprehensive iron panel and is derived from serum iron and transferrin (or TIBC) results.
Testing transferrin saturation is important for anyone at risk of iron imbalance. This includes people with diets low in iron, meat or seafood, those with heavy periods, pregnant women, endurance athletes, and individuals with a family history of haemochromatosis. It helps identify risk factors early and monitor changes during dietary adjustments, supplementation or treatment.
What a high value can mean
High transferrin saturation is most commonly caused by hereditary haemochromatosis, a condition in which the body absorbs too much iron from food. It can also result from iron poisoning or excessive supplementation. If left unmanaged, iron overload can damage the liver, heart and other organs.
What a low value can mean
Low transferrin saturation is most often a sign of iron deficiency anaemia. The body has insufficient iron to saturate its transport proteins. This is typically seen alongside low ferritin and low serum iron. Causes include inadequate dietary intake, malabsorption and chronic blood loss.
Avoid iron supplements for 24 hours before the test. Bring valid ID to the lab.
Order your test
Choose your test and pay online. Your lab referral is created straight away.
Give your sample
Visit any of our partner sampling locations. No appointment needed at most of them.
The lab analyses it
Your sample is analysed at an accredited Swedish laboratory.
Get your results
Your values appear in your account with reference ranges and an explanation of each marker.
Normal transferrin saturation is typically between 20 % and 50 %. Values below 20 % may suggest iron deficiency, while values above 50 % may indicate iron overload.
It is calculated by dividing serum iron by total iron-binding capacity (TIBC) or transferrin, then multiplying by 100 to get a percentage.
Yes. Blood transfusions, iron injections and recent iron supplementation can all influence the results of iron tests, including transferrin saturation.