Transferrin mass concentration (serum/plasma)
This test measures the amount of transferrin, a protein in your blood that helps carry iron.
["Transferrin helps your body use iron efficiently and protects against iron overload."]
Key facts at a glance
- LOINC
- 51831-6
- Short code
- B2TF
- Synonyms
- B2 Transferrin Fld-mCnc
- Category
- chemistry
- Sample
- serum
- Container
- Sterile, leak-proof container; plain red-top tube or CSF collection tube
- Units
- N/A
- Ref low
- 200
- Ref high
- 350
- Fasting
- false
- Population
- adult
- Sex
- all
- Age range
- 18–65 years
- Method
- Immunofixation electrophoresis; Immunoblotting; or Nephelometry
- CPT
- 82784
- SNOMED
- 39579005
- Specimen volume
- Minimum 0.5 mL of body fluid
- Stability
- Room temperature: 4 hours; Refrigerated (2-8°C): 7 days; Frozen (-20°C): 30 days. Avoid repeated freeze-thaw cycles.
- Hemolysis max
- 500
- Lipemia max
- 1000
- Icterus max
- 500
- TAT
- 24–72 hours
- Order
- routine
What Is Transferrin Used For?
Transferrin plays a key role in transporting iron from your intestines and spleen to your red blood cells. It also helps prevent iron from building up in tissues, which can cause damage. Low levels may suggest iron deficiency or liver disease, while very high levels could indicate conditions like chronic inflammation or certain cancers.
How Is This Test Performed?
A blood sample is drawn from a vein, usually in your arm. The sample is sent to a lab where transferrin is measured using a specialized immunoassay or similar method. Results are typically reported as a mass concentration in units like grams per liter.
Why Might You Need This Test?
Your doctor may order this test if you have symptoms like fatigue, pale skin, or unexplained weight loss. It can also help diagnose or monitor conditions such as anemia, liver disease, or chronic inflammation.
What Do the Results Mean?
Interpretation depends on your overall health and symptoms. While reference ranges vary by lab, lower than expected levels may indicate iron deficiency or liver problems, while higher levels could signal inflammation or other health concerns. Always discuss results with your healthcare provider.
Reference range
NCBI: Transferrin 200-350 mg/dLN/A
No special patient preparation required. Specimen is typically collected from nasal or ear drainage, or from wound drainage suspected of containing CSF.
Clinical interpretation
How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.
Transferrin levels can reflect iron metabolism and liver function. Low levels may indicate iron deficiency anemia or liver disease, while elevated levels can be seen in chronic inflammation, certain cancers, or genetic disorders like hypoalbuminemia.
Short name
Transferrin Level
Frequently asked questions
What causes low transferrin levels?
What causes high transferrin levels?
How often should I get this test?
Sources
- 1
- 2Lab Tests OnlineSource
- 3
Click any link to access the full source. PubMed Central (PMC) links provide free full-text access.
This information is for educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment.
This content is for general informational and educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the guidance of a qualified healthcare provider with any questions you have about a medical condition, and never disregard professional medical advice or delay seeking it because of something you read here.
If you think you may have a medical emergency, call your local emergency number or go to the nearest emergency department immediately.
Medically reviewed by WellAlly Editorial Team Last reviewed August 17, 2026. · Read our editorial policy