How is transferrin saturation a reliable indicator for any parameter if serum iron is not reliable?
Although TIBC is negative acute phase reactant, would it be a better indicator of iron deficiency (in combination with ferritin)?
Answer from: Medical Oncologist at Academic Institution
The question is a very good question. The Fe/TIBC must be drawn on an overnight fast including any vitamin pills containing iron. Otherwise, the serum iron is speciously elevated which in turn speciously elevates the TSAT. If those conditions are met, the TSAT is as good as the transferrin receptor ...