What to Expect From the Total Iron Binding Capacity (TIBC) Test For Iron Deficiency Anemia
If your doctor believes that you are suffering from the blood disorder known as iron deficiency anemia, it is likely that a “Total Iron Binding Capacity” or “TIBC” test will be ordered. This test is really easy to understand. It simply takes a measurement of the iron that is located in the blood.
The medical professional that interprets the test will be able to determine if there is an excess of iron within the blood, or if there is a lower than normal amount of iron in the blood. This is made possible by the fact that when iron is transported within the blood, it attaches to a special protein referred to as “Transferrin”. The test works to discover the measurement of this protein.
Preparation
If you are ordered to take the “Total Iron Binding Capacity” test for iron deficiency anemia, it is important to ensure that you know and understand how to effectively prepare for it. You should understand that, because this is a blood test, the blood will be drawn from one of the veins in your body.
An antiseptic is used to clean the injection spot – which is typically from the inside of the area of the elbow or perhaps on the hand. Then, an elastic form of a band will be tied on the area of the upper arm so that the vein swells and becomes visible. The blood is then collected into a vial where it can be sealed and sent for testing.
Test Results
If the test comes back abnormally and there is a high amount of iron in the blood, it typically means that you have iron deficiency anemia. It could also mean that you are in the late stages of pregnancy too. If the test results in low iron levels, it may mean that there is an issue with the liver, you are experiencing a type of malnutrition, you may have Hemolytic Anemia, pernicious anemia, or Sickle Cell Anemia.
Your medical doctor will be able to determine an appropriate course of action if you have Iron Deficiency Anemia, or any other condition that the “Total Iron Binding Capacity” test reveals.