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Unsaturated Iron Binding Capacity (UIBC)

Methodology

Ferrous-Iron (Fe 2+) is added to serum, which binds specifically with transferrin at unsaturated iron binding sites. An intense green complex is formed when the remaining unbound ferrous iron reacts with an indicator dye in the assay. The quantity of bound to unbound transferrin determines the Unsaturated Iron Binding Capacity (UIBC).

Test Utility

Unsaturated Iron Binding Capacity is used as an indicator for patients suspected of having either iron deficiency anemia or iron overload (e.g. hemochromatosis).

Specimen Collection and Preparation

Serum or plasma sample in the following tubes:

  • Preferred Specimen: One Gold-top SST tube. (Minimum Whole Blood: 4.0 mL)

  • Also acceptable: One Greed-top Heparin tube. (Minimum Whole Blood: 3.0 mL)

Specimen Storage and Stability

  • Room Temperature (15 - 25°C): 4 Days

  • Refrigerated (2 - 8°C): 7 Days

  • Frozen: Not indicated

Specimen Rejection

  • Insufficient sample volume

  • Sample not stored at proper temperature

  • Frozen whole blood

  • Severely hemolyzed samples

  • Severely lipemic specimens

  • Specimen labeled incorrectly or not labeled

  • EDTA, Oxalate or Citrate Plasma samples

Reference Pages

Performed

Monday – Saturday

Result available within 24 hours of receipt in laboratory

NOTE: Specimens are refrigerated (2-8°) for 7 days before disposal

Contacts

Vibra Health Laboratory

1307- A, Allen Dr

Troy, MI 48083

(248) 846-0663

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