1. What is Iron Saturation?

Iron saturation measures the percentage of transferrin (the main iron transport protein in blood) that is saturated with iron. It's calculated by dividing serum iron by total iron-binding capacity (TIBC) and multiplying by 100.

2. How Does the Calculator Work?

The calculator uses the iron saturation formula:

Where:

• \( Iron \) — Serum iron concentration in μg/dL
• \( Total\_iron\_binding\_capacity \) — TIBC in μg/dL

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

3. Importance of Iron Saturation

Details: Iron saturation helps diagnose iron deficiency or iron overload conditions. Low saturation suggests iron deficiency, while high saturation may indicate hemochromatosis or iron overload.

4. Using the Calculator

Tips: Enter serum iron and TIBC values in μg/dL. Both values must be positive numbers. For accurate results, samples should be drawn in the morning after fasting.

5. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q1: What is a normal iron saturation level?
A: Normal range is typically 20-50%. Below 20% suggests iron deficiency, above 50% may indicate iron overload.

Q2: How does iron saturation differ from ferritin?
A: Ferritin measures iron stores, while saturation measures circulating iron bound to transferrin.

Q3: When should iron saturation be tested?
A: When evaluating anemia, suspected iron deficiency, or hemochromatosis. Morning fasting samples are preferred.

Q4: What affects iron saturation results?
A: Recent iron intake, inflammation, liver disease, and certain medications can affect results.

Q5: Can saturation be >100%?
A: Yes, in cases of iron overload or with certain lab methods when iron exceeds TIBC.