Transferrin test
Quick answer: A transferrin test measures transferrin, the main protein that carries iron in your blood. It is ordered with iron, ferritin and TIBC to look into anaemia, low iron or iron overload, and sometimes to assess nutrition.
- SampleBlood
- TakesAbout 5 minutes
- Before the testNo special preparation is usually needed.
How the test is done
- 1You are seated and a vein in your arm is cleaned
- 2Blood is drawn into a tube
- 3The test is often done with serum iron, ferritin and TIBC
- 4A plaster is applied and you can leave
What your results can mean
Reading your report
Normal ranges differ between labs, so compare your result with the range printed on your report and discuss it with your doctor.
If the result is outside the usual range
A high transferrin can point to iron deficiency, and can also be seen in pregnancy or with oestrogen pills. A low transferrin can be seen with iron overload, liver disease, long-term inflammation, kidney protein loss or poor nutrition.
Who usually has this test
People with anaemia or tiredness, suspected iron deficiency or overload, and sometimes people with poor nutrition.
Risks and aftercare
The needle site may be a little sore or bruised for a day.
Names and options
Also called: serum transferrin
Listed by the hospital as
- TRANSFERRIN, SERUM
Questions about this test
What is the difference between transferrin and TIBC?
Transferrin is the protein that carries iron, measured directly. TIBC measures how much iron the blood could carry, which mostly reflects transferrin. They give similar information.
Why is transferrin high in iron deficiency?
When iron stores are low, the body makes more transferrin to capture as much iron as possible. A high transferrin with low iron is a typical pattern of iron deficiency.
Can transferrin show poor nutrition?
Transferrin can fall with poor protein intake or long illness, so it is sometimes used as one marker of nutrition, along with albumin and other tests.
Related tests
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This page explains each test in general terms so you know what to expect. It is not medical advice: your doctor decides which tests you need and what your results mean. Reference ranges differ between laboratories. Updated 4 November 2026.