The level of transferrin and its importance

A transferrin is an important glycoprotein responsible for the transport of iron ions in the bloodstream. Various transferrin molecules exist, but the most significant type delivers essential iron ions for red blood cell formation to the bone marrow. The role of iron is crucial, as it is a vital trace element for the body, influencing the oxygen-carrying capacity of the blood in connection with hemoglobin.

The process of iron loss is not regulated, so the body can only control iron intake. As a result, examining parameters that indicate iron balance is essential. Since the transferrin molecule can bind two iron ions, it delivers the necessary iron to target cells, such as the bone marrow, liver, and spleen, but it can also transport it to any other cell that requires iron.

In addition, transferrin has a bacteriostatic effect because it can bind free iron from circulation, thus inhibiting the proliferation of pathogens. Through this property, transferrin plays a role not only in iron transport but also in strengthening the body’s immune response.

The role of transferrin in iron balance

Transferrin plays a key role in the transport of iron, which is essential for the health of the body. Measuring the transferrin level in the blood helps determine the state of iron balance. In laboratory tests, transferrin evaluation is not conducted in isolation but alongside other parameters characteristic of iron homeostasis, such as serum iron and soluble transferrin receptor levels. These indicators change in parallel and together provide a comprehensive picture of iron metabolism.

The normal transferrin level in adults typically ranges from 200 to 340 mg/dl. No special preparations are needed for blood testing, so fasting is not required before arriving at the lab. This characteristic makes testing easier, as it makes the process more comfortable for patients.

Causes of increased transferrin levels

The most common cause of increased transferrin levels is iron deficiency, where the body attempts to bind the available iron more effectively. An increase in transferrin levels can also be observed during pregnancy, as the developing fetus requires more iron. Additionally, the use of contraceptive pills, especially those containing estrogen, can contribute to increased transferrin levels.

Certain kidney diseases, such as some types of nephrotic syndrome, can also raise transferrin levels, as these conditions affect protein metabolism and iron balance. Therefore, high transferrin levels can be an indicator of various health conditions, and it is important to monitor them during diagnosis.

Causes of decreased transferrin levels

A decrease in transferrin levels can also be attributed to several factors. In various types of anemia that are not iron-deficiency-related, transferrin production may decrease. Liver diseases, particularly liver failure, can also contribute to reduced transferrin production, as the liver is responsible for synthesizing transferrin.

In addition, kidney diseases, malnutrition, wasting conditions, chronic diseases, cancers, infections, and chronic inflammations can also cause decreased transferrin levels. Low transferrin levels can also be observed in hereditary conditions associated with iron overload, which requires special attention during diagnosis.

Thus, the changes in transferrin levels provide important information about the state of iron balance and can assist in the detection of various health problems.