Transferrin Saturation

What is Transferrin Saturation?

Transferrin saturation (TSAT) is the percentage of transferrin binding sites occupied by iron, calculated as (Serum Iron / TIBC) x 100. It represents how loaded the iron transport system is. It bridges the gap between serum iron (variable) and ferritin (affected by inflammation) as an iron status indicator.

What might a high or low Transferrin Saturation mean?

Low transferrin saturation is a common feature of iron deficiency, even when ferritin reads normal or high due to inflammation. High saturation is associated with iron overload, and markedly high saturation is a feature seen in hereditary hemochromatosis, typically followed by genetic confirmation. It is a common screening signal for iron-overload review.

What is the typical reference range for Transferrin Saturation?

The general-population reference range shown here is 20 – 50 %. Reference ranges describe the general population and are not a personal target — discuss your results with your physician.

What can affect Transferrin Saturation?

It may be higher with: Iron supplementation, Hemochromatosis, Iron loading from repeated transfusions, Hemolytic anemia, Liver disease (cirrhosis), Ineffective erythropoiesis. It may be lower with: Iron deficiency, Chronic inflammation (hepcidin blocks iron release), Chronic blood loss, Malabsorption, Chronic kidney disease.