Doctors order TIBC to check iron status when you have tiredness, hair loss, pale skin, or suspected anemia. It helps tell iron deficiency from anemia linked to inflammation and guides next steps. It is usually paired with ferritin, serum iron, and transferrin saturation for a clearer picture. You can test this marker with Aniva across Germany and Finland.

Doctors order TIBC to check iron status when you have tiredness, hair loss, pale skin, or suspected anemia. It helps tell iron deficiency from anemia linked to inflammation and guides next steps. It is usually paired with ferritin, serum iron, and transferrin saturation for a clearer picture. You can test this marker with Aniva across Germany and Finland.

High: Often seen with low iron stores, pregnancy, or estrogen therapy; your body may be trying to carry more iron.
Low: May occur with chronic inflammation, liver disease, malnutrition, or kidney protein loss; fewer iron-binding proteins are available. Consider results alongside ferritin, serum iron, and transferrin saturation. If you take iron supplements, let your clinician know before testing.

• Ferritin
• Serum iron
• Transferrin saturation
• Transferrin
• Complete blood count (CBC)

Common factors that can skew results include pregnancy or estrogen therapy (can raise TIBC), chronic inflammation or acute illness (can lower TIBC), recent iron infusions or transfusions, liver disease, kidney protein loss, dehydration or overhydration, strenuous exercise, and recent high-dose iron supplements. Time of day has a minor effect; consistent timing helps when repeating tests.

Special situations (when to confirm or adjust): pregnancy, active infection, chronic inflammatory disease, recent transfusion, or major liver/kidney issues may warrant repeat testing or additional iron studies.