Unsaturated Iron Binding Capacity near me in Ahmedabad
Understanding Unsaturated Iron Binding Capacity in Ahmedabad
What is Unsaturated Iron Binding Capacity in Ahmedabad?
An Unsaturated Iron Binding Capacity, (UIBC) test, often done as a part of iron studies, tells about the iron status in the body. It helps determine the reserve capacity of transferrin i.e., the portion not yet saturated with iron. This reserve capacity is important for maintaining iron balance in the body and ensuring that an optimal amount of iron is available for vital body functions like oxygen transport or energy production. This test helps detect conditions associated with iron deficiency, symptoms of which include pale skin, fatigue, headaches, weakness, etc, or iron overload causing hemochromatosis that can cause damage to organs like the liver or heart. It is available at an affordable price with Tata 1mg labs in Ahmedabad.
An Unsaturated Iron Binding Capacity test is usually done as a follow-up test to an abnormal complete blood count (CBC) test result. Overnight fasting (8-12 hours) is preferred but not mandatory for this test and avoid taking iron supplements for at least 24 hours prior to sample collection.
What does Unsaturated Iron Binding Capacity measure?
An Unsaturated Iron Binding Capacity test determines the reserve capacity of transferrin, i.e., the portion not yet saturated with iron. The iron-binding capacity of our body can be segregated into two parts – Total Iron Binding Capacity (TIBC) and Unsaturated Iron Binding Capacity (UIBC). UIBC refers to the capacity of transferrin, a protein that transports iron, to bind with additional iron. In easy terms, it represents the available "slots" on transferrin to carry iron molecules. Unlike iron saturation, which assesses the occupied slots, UIBC measures the unoccupied ones.