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Serum Transferrin Concentration

Published: August 9, 2026Updated: August 17, 2026

This test measures the amount of transferrin, a protein in your blood that helps carry iron. Low levels may indicate nutritional deficiencies or certain health conditions.

Quick summary

["Transferrin helps regulate iron levels in your body and supports overall health."]

Medically reviewed by WellAlly Editorial TeamLast reviewed August 17, 2026Editorial policy

Key facts at a glance

LOINC
35229-4
Short code
Transferrin SerPl-msCnc
Synonyms
Transferrin SerPl-msCnc
Category
chemistry
Sample
serum
Container
Red-top tube (SST)
Units
N/A
Ref low
200
Ref high
350
Fasting
false
Population
adult
Sex
all
Age range
18–65 years
CPT
84466
Specimen volume
5 mL
Stability
Room temperature: 4h, Refrigerated: 24h, Frozen: 7d
Hemolysis max
500
Lipemia max
1000
Icterus max
500
TAT
4–24 hours
Order
routine

Why This Test Might Be Ordered

Your healthcare provider may recommend this test if you have symptoms like fatigue, anemia, or if they suspect conditions such as iron deficiency, liver disease, or kidney problems. It can also be part of routine blood work or screening for certain metabolic disorders.

What to Expect Before the Test

No special preparation is usually needed, but you may be asked to fast for 8–12 hours before the test if your blood is drawn early in the morning. Wear a loose shirt for easy access to your arm.

During the Test

A healthcare professional will insert a small needle into a vein in your arm to draw blood. You may feel a slight pinch, but it usually takes only a few minutes. The blood sample is then sent to a lab for analysis.

What the Results Mean

Results are interpreted by your healthcare provider based on your overall health, symptoms, and other test results. Very low transferrin levels may suggest iron deficiency or malabsorption issues, while very high levels could indicate liver disease or certain genetic disorders.

Reference range

NCBI: Transferrin 200-350 mg/dLN/A

Specimen: serum

Fasting for 12 hours preferred. Iron supplements should be stopped 24 hours before if possible.

Clinical interpretation

How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.

Transferrin levels can reflect iron metabolism and are important for diagnosing conditions like iron deficiency anemia, hypoalbuminemia (low protein in blood), or inherited disorders like hereditary transferrin deficiency. It may also be used to monitor treatment responses in some cases.

Short name

Transferrin Level

Frequently asked questions

What causes transferrin levels to be low?
Low transferrin levels can result from iron deficiency, chronic diseases (like kidney disease or liver disease), malnutrition, or conditions that affect protein synthesis in the liver. Certain medications or pregnancy may also influence results.
What does it mean if my transferrin level is high?
Elevated transferrin levels may indicate liver disease, certain genetic disorders (such as hereditary transferrin variants), or conditions that cause excessive protein production. Your provider will consider other factors, like your symptoms and lab results, to determine the cause.
Do I need to do anything special after the test?
You can usually resume normal activities immediately after the blood draw. Apply gentle pressure to the site to stop any bleeding, and check for signs of infection (like redness or swelling). If you experience dizziness or fainting, let your provider know.
  1. 1
    MedlinePlus — Laboratory TestsSource
  2. 2
    Lab Tests OnlineSource
  3. 3
    Mayo Clinic — Tests & ProceduresSource

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.

Medical Disclaimer

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