1. What is Iron Saturation?

Iron saturation measures the percentage of transferrin (the main iron transport protein) that is saturated with iron. High saturation (>45%) may indicate iron overload conditions like hemochromatosis.

2. How Does the Calculator Work?

The calculator uses the standard iron saturation formula:

Where:

• Serum Iron — Circulating iron bound to transferrin (μg/dL)
• TIBC — Total Iron Binding Capacity (μg/dL)

Explanation: The calculation shows what percentage of available iron-binding sites on transferrin are occupied by iron.

3. Importance of Iron Saturation

Details: Iron saturation helps diagnose iron metabolism disorders. High levels may indicate hemochromatosis or iron overload, while low levels suggest iron deficiency.

4. Using the Calculator

Tips: Enter serum iron and TIBC values in μg/dL. Both values must be positive numbers. The calculator automatically flags results >45% as high.

5. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q1: What is a normal iron saturation range?
A: Typically 20-45%. Values below 20% may indicate deficiency, while values above 45% may suggest iron overload.

Q2: Why focus on high saturation specifically?
A: High saturation (>45%) is a key indicator for hereditary hemochromatosis and requires further evaluation.

Q3: When should iron studies be performed?
A: When iron deficiency or overload is suspected, or as screening for hereditary hemochromatosis in at-risk individuals.

Q4: Are fasting samples required?
A: Yes, serum iron levels fluctuate throughout the day, so morning fasting samples are recommended.

Q5: What other tests are needed with high saturation?
A: Ferritin, genetic testing for HFE mutations (C282Y, H63D), and possibly liver function tests should be considered.