Unsaturated Iron Binding Capacity

An Unsaturated Iron Binding Capacity test determines the reserve capacity of transferrin, a protein that binds iron, not yet bound to iron. UIBC is most frequently used along with a serum iron test and a total iron-binding capacity test (TIBC) to evaluate individuals suspected of having either iron deficiency (such as iron deficiency anemia) or iron overload.

Iron is an important nutrient required to perform various bodily functions. Iron helps produce healthy red blood cells (RBCs). It acts as a crucial part of hemoglobin, the protein in RBCs that combines with oxygen and is transported to various body parts. Besides these, iron provides energy, improves concentration, promotes healthier skin, nails, and hair, strengthens the immune system, etc. Usually, the body cannot produce iron by itself and thus it is absorbed from the foods we eat or from supplements.

Iron is transported throughout the body via the blood attached to a protein called transferrin. Your body makes transferrin in relation to your need for iron. When iron stores are low, transferrin levels increase, while transferrin is low when there is too much iron. Usually, about one-third of the transferrin is being used to transport iron. Because of this, your blood serum has considerable extra iron-binding capacity, which is the unsaturated iron binding capacity (UIBC).

An Unsaturated Iron Binding Capacity test is typically used along with iron and ferritin tests to evaluate if you are suspected of having too much or too little iron stored within your body. Signs and symptoms associated with low iron levels may include pale skin, fatigue, headaches, weakness, and brittle nails, while those associated with excess iron stores may include irregular heartbeat, joint pain, loss of hair, and abdominal pain.

Usually, overnight fasting is preferred but not mandatory before undergoing an Unsaturated Iron Binding Capacity test. However, it is also important to inform the doctor about any of the medicines you are taking, especially iron supplements, as some of them may affect your iron levels and need to be adjusted or temporarily discontinued before the test.

Test result ranges are approximate and may differ slightly between labs depending on the methodology and laboratory guidelines. Discuss your symptoms and specific test results with your doctor to help them correlate your clinical and laboratory findings. The test results will help the doctor determine your medical condition, recommend lifestyle modifications such as diet and exercise, decide whether or not medications are required to manage your condition and formulate your overall treatment plan.