Unsaturated Iron-Binding Capacity
UIBC
Description
"Unsaturated Iron-Binding Capacity" (UIBC) test measures how much transferrin in your blood is available to bind with iron, helping assess your overall iron status. Doctors often order this test when evaluating possible iron deficiency, overload, or liver issues. High UIBC levels may signal low iron availability, while low levels suggest excess iron or chronic disease. Results help guide personalized care through supplements, diet changes, or further testing. Regular UIBC checks support early detection of imbalances and improved iron management.
Category
Proteins
Procedure
Invasive
Sample Type
Blood – Serum
Units
Micrograms per Deciliter | Micromoles per Liter
Procedure Category
Blood Draw
Test Group
Iron Group
Test Group Description
Iron Group: Its focus lies on evaluating iron levels and related parameters, offering insights into iron metabolism and associated health conditions.
Optimal Range
For All Individuals:
Conventional Unit: 130–300 µg/dL
SI Unit: 23.3–53.7 µmol/L
Normal Range
For All Individuals:
Conventional Unit: 110–350 µg/dL
SI Unit: 19.7–62.7 µmol/L
Results That Differ From The Norm (Direct and Indirect Causes)
Increased levels may indicate:
Chronic hepatitis (Liver inflammation persisting over time)
Chronic infections
Chronic kidney disease
Cirrhosis (Chronic liver damage)
Crohn's disease (Inflammatory bowel disease affecting the digestive tract)
Hemochromatosis (Iron overload disorder)
Hypopr...
Key Reasons For Testing
Iron Status Assessment: Measures the body’s capacity to bind and transport additional iron molecules.
Anemia Diagnosis: Identifies iron-deficiency anemia by detecting decreased iron availability.
Differentiation of Anemia Types: Distinguishes iron-deficiency anemia from other types to guide diagnosis and treatment.
Health Status Conditions It May Be Used To Assess
Currently, this test is not directly associated with any conditions listed on the Health Status page. However, it may be included as part of a broader set of tests linked to specific health conditions.
Some Prominent Medical Labs That May Offer This Test
Please note that this particular test has not been associated with any of the listed prominent medical labs. We recommend enquiring with your private physician or nearest hospital to determine where this specific test can be performed.
References
Important Note
Any medical procedure yielding results outside the norm may be directly or indirectly linked to the conditions outlined on this page. Various factors, including genetics, medication and supplement usage, recent illnesses, pregnancy, pre-test eating, smoking, and stress, can impact the test's outcome. Additionally, factors like false positives, false negatives, inaccurate analyses, and others can influence results.
Reference ranges, which help healthcare professionals interpret medical tests, may vary depending on age, gender, and other factors. They may also differ between laboratories due to variations in instruments and methods used. Optimal ranges are designed for preventive purposes, aiming to identify trends and potential risks early, while normal ranges reflect conventional laboratory values indicating no current disease or pathology. Your healthcare practitioner may have specific reasons for testing that deviate from the usual or may interpret results differently based on individual circumstances. Proper interpretation typically involves considering clinical findings and other diagnostic tests. Hence, it is crucial to provide your healthcare professionals with a comprehensive medical history, consult with them for result interpretation, and follow their guidance for potential re-testing or additional diagnostics.
Disclaimer
This content is provided solely for informative and educational purposes. It is not intended as a substitute for medical advice or treatment from a personal physician. Regarding the interpretation of their medical test results and/or specific health questions, it is recommended that all readers and viewers consult their physicians or other qualified health professionals. The publisher is not responsible for any adverse health effects that may result from reading or following the information in this educational content. Before beginning any nutrition, supplement, or lifestyle program, all viewers, especially those taking prescription or over-the-counter medications, should consult their physician or health care practitioner.
Please note that while prominent lab names are included in this content, we cannot guarantee that these labs offer all the tests mentioned. For confirmation, individuals should contact the labs directly or consult their medical practitioners. The information provided reflects general knowledge at the time of publication and may not include recent updates or emerging research. Readers should verify details with qualified professionals to ensure the most up-to-date and accurate guidance.
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