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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 to your body’s tissues. Low levels may indicate iron deficiency or other health conditions.

Quick summary

["Transferrin helps your body use iron efficiently; levels can signal potential nutritional or medical concerns."]

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

Key facts at a glance

LOINC
22674-6
Short code
Transferrin SerPl-sCnc
Synonyms
Transferrin SerPl-sCnc
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 Is This Test Done?

Your healthcare provider may order this test to check for iron deficiency, anemia, or other conditions affecting iron metabolism. It can also help monitor liver function or assess nutritional status.

What to Expect Before the Test

No special preparation is needed. You’ll have a small needle inserted into your arm for a blood draw. It usually takes a few minutes, and you can resume normal activities afterward.

What the Results Mean

Results are compared to a general range for healthy adults. Very low levels might suggest iron deficiency, while very high levels could indicate liver disease or other conditions. Your provider will discuss findings with you.

Common Conditions Linked to Transferrin Levels

Low transferrin is often linked to iron deficiency anemia, chronic liver disease, or kidney problems. High transferrin can be seen in liver disorders or certain infections. Always discuss symptoms with your doctor.

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.

◆Associated findings1

Short name

Transferrin Level

Frequently asked questions

What causes low transferrin levels?
Low transferrin can result from iron deficiency (e.g., heavy blood loss or poor diet), chronic liver disease, kidney disease, or certain medications. It may also appear in people with inflammation or infections.
What causes high transferrin levels?
High transferrin is less common but may occur with liver disease, certain cancers, or severe infections. It can also be seen in people with high estrogen levels or during pregnancy.
Can transferrin levels change with diet?
Yes, diet can affect transferrin indirectly. Iron-rich foods (like red meat, spinach) or deficiencies in iron or vitamin C may influence levels. However, transferrin itself isn’t directly tied to dietary intake like iron is.
  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