Transferrin is a protein component formed in the liver and secreted into the blood, where it is responsible for transporting iron to the various tissues in the body, including red blood cells, which need iron to produce hemoglobin. It helps regulate iron levels in the body and is an important factor in ensuring the body has enough iron to produce hemoglobin, the protein that carries oxygen in the blood.
When is it important to measure transferrin?
It is important to consider a transferrin analysis if you experience symptoms or are in situations such as:
- Provided you experience symptoms of iron deficiency such as fatigue, pallor, hair loss or increased heart rate.
- Has a condition that affects iron absorption or consumption, for example inflammatory bowel diseases such as Crohn's disease or celiac disease.
- Are pregnant or planning pregnancy, as the need for iron increases.
- Have undergone operations that can affect iron absorption, such as gastric bypass.
- Suffer from chronic diseases where iron metabolism is often disturbed.
Transferrin is also important to evaluate for you as:
- Want an overall assessment of your body's iron status.
- Wish to follow up treatment of anemia or other iron-related conditions.
- Are vegetarian or vegan and want to ensure sufficient iron absorption from the diet.
