1. What is Iron Saturation?

Iron saturation measures the percentage of transferrin (the main iron transport protein) that is saturated with iron. It's calculated using serum iron and unsaturated iron-binding capacity (UIBC) values to assess iron status in the body.

2. How Does the Calculator Work?

The calculator uses the iron saturation formula:

Where:

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

Explanation: The formula calculates the proportion of transferrin binding sites that are occupied by iron, expressed as a percentage.

3. Importance of Iron Saturation

Details: Iron saturation is crucial for diagnosing iron deficiency anemia, iron overload conditions (hemochromatosis), and monitoring iron therapy. Normal values typically range from 20% to 50%.

4. Using the Calculator

Tips: Enter serum iron and UIBC values in μg/dL. Both values must be positive numbers. The calculator will compute the iron saturation percentage.

5. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q1: What is the normal range for iron saturation?
A: Normal iron saturation typically ranges from 20% to 50%. Values below 20% may indicate iron deficiency, while values above 50% may suggest iron overload.

Q2: How does UIBC relate to TIBC?
A: UIBC (Unsaturated Iron-Binding Capacity) plus serum iron equals TIBC (Total Iron-Binding Capacity). TIBC represents the total amount of iron that transferrin can bind.

Q3: When should iron studies be performed?
A: Iron studies are indicated when investigating anemia, suspected iron deficiency, or iron overload disorders. Morning fasting samples are preferred.

Q4: What factors can affect iron saturation results?
A: Recent iron supplementation, inflammation, liver disease, and recent blood transfusions can affect iron saturation measurements.

Q5: Is iron saturation alone sufficient for diagnosis?
A: No, iron saturation should be interpreted alongside other iron studies (serum iron, ferritin, TIBC) and clinical context for accurate diagnosis.