1. What is Iron Percent Saturation?

Iron percent saturation is a calculation that compares the amount of iron in the blood to the total iron-binding capacity (TIBC). It helps evaluate iron status in the body and is particularly useful in diagnosing iron deficiency or iron overload.

2. How Does the Calculator Work?

The calculator uses the iron percent saturation formula:

Where:

• Iron — Serum iron level in μg/dL
• TIBC — Total iron binding capacity in μg/dL

Explanation: The equation calculates what percentage of available iron-binding sites are actually occupied by iron.

3. Importance of Iron Saturation

Details: Iron saturation helps distinguish between different types of anemia and can indicate iron overload conditions like hemochromatosis. Normal range for men is typically 20-50%.

4. Using the Calculator

Tips: Enter serum iron and TIBC values in μg/dL. Both values must be greater than 0 for calculation.

5. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q1: What does a low iron saturation mean?
A: Low saturation (<15-20%) typically indicates iron deficiency anemia.

Q2: What does high iron saturation indicate?
A: High saturation (>50% in men) may suggest iron overload or hemochromatosis.

Q3: How does this differ for women?
A: Women generally have lower normal ranges due to menstrual blood loss.

Q4: When should this test be done?
A: Morning fasting sample is ideal as iron levels fluctuate throughout the day.

Q5: What other tests are needed with this?
A: Ferritin levels are often checked alongside to assess iron stores.