TIBC (Total Iron-Binding Capacity)
TIBC measures the maximum amount of iron the blood can carry, mostly via transferrin. It rises in iron deficiency (the body makes more transferrin to capture available iron) and falls in iron overload, chronic disease, or malnutrition.
Normal Range
240–450 µg/dL
Reference ranges may vary slightly between laboratories. Always interpret your result in context with your doctor.
Why is TIBC measured?
TIBC is part of the iron studies panel. The combination of low iron + high TIBC + low ferritin confirms iron deficiency; low iron + low or normal TIBC + high ferritin suggests anaemia of chronic disease.
High TIBC means…
High TIBC suggests iron deficiency. The body upregulates transferrin to capture available iron.
Low TIBC means…
Low TIBC suggests iron overload, chronic inflammation, malnutrition, liver disease, or nephrotic syndrome (transferrin lost in urine).
Symptoms associated with abnormal TIBC
When TIBC is high:
- Symptoms of iron deficiency
When TIBC is low:
- Symptoms of underlying disease
How to improve your TIBC
- Pattern matters: iron deficiency = low iron, high TIBC, low ferritin; chronic disease = low iron, low TIBC, normal/high ferritin.
Frequently asked questions about TIBC
What does TIBC tell me beyond ferritin?
TIBC adds context: it distinguishes iron deficiency (TIBC up) from anaemia of chronic disease (TIBC down) when ferritin is borderline.
Medical Sources
This page is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. Always consult a qualified healthcare provider about your individual results.