1. What is Total Iron Saturation (TSAT)?

Total Iron Saturation (TSAT) is a calculated parameter that represents the percentage of transferrin that is saturated with iron. It's an important marker in the evaluation of iron status and metabolism.

2. How Does the Calculator Work?

The calculator uses the TSAT equation:

Where:

• \( Iron \) — Serum iron concentration (μg/dL)
• \( UIBC \) — Unsaturated iron-binding capacity (μg/dL)

Explanation: The equation calculates the percentage of transferrin binding sites that are occupied by iron. UIBC represents the remaining iron-binding capacity of transferrin.

3. Importance of TSAT Calculation

Details: TSAT is crucial for diagnosing iron deficiency or iron overload conditions. It helps differentiate between different types of anemia and is used to monitor iron therapy.

4. Using the Calculator

Tips: Enter serum iron and UIBC values in μg/dL. Both values must be positive numbers for accurate calculation.

5. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q1: What is a normal TSAT value?
A: Normal TSAT ranges from 20% to 50%. Values below 20% suggest iron deficiency, while values above 50% may indicate iron overload.

Q2: How does TSAT differ from serum ferritin?
A: TSAT reflects current iron availability, while ferritin reflects iron stores. Both are needed for complete iron status assessment.

Q3: When should TSAT be measured?
A: TSAT is particularly useful in evaluating anemia, monitoring iron therapy, and assessing for iron overload disorders like hemochromatosis.

Q4: Are there limitations to TSAT?
A: TSAT can be affected by inflammation, liver disease, and recent iron ingestion. It shows diurnal variation, so morning fasting samples are preferred.

Q5: What's the relationship between TSAT and TIBC?
A: TIBC (Total Iron-Binding Capacity) equals Iron + UIBC. TSAT can also be calculated as (Iron / TIBC) × 100.