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| The transferrin saturation test is a sensitive and relatively inexpensive biochemical measure of iron overloading. Colds, inflammation, liver disease, and malignancies can falsely lower test values. Function Transferrin is a blood protein that picks up iron absorbed by the intestines and transports it from one location to another. When iron absorption is abnormally high, transferrin proteins become more saturated with iron. An elevated test value therefore reflects an increase in iron absorption. Directions Several factors can falsely elevate test values, including the use of vitamin C, dietary supplements containing iron, medicinal iron, and estrogen preparations. Patients should avoid these products for 24 hours prior to the fasting blood draw. |
| Hemochromatosis (Iron overload) |