Thalassemia Patients and Friends

Discussion Forums => Thalassemia Minor => Topic started by: SaltySea on December 19, 2017, 09:50:36 PM

Title: Transferrin Question
Post by: SaltySea on December 19, 2017, 09:50:36 PM

Hello everyone,

I have an alpha thalassemic trait. My iron levels are within range.  Ferritin 48, transferrin saturation is 44, however my transferrin has always been below the reference range which is in Australia (2.5-3.8). My transferrin is always around 2.1 to 2.2.

My doctors do not know why this is the case. Does anyone know if it has to do with thalassemia in any way?

Thank you

Title: Re: Transferrin Question
Post by: Andy Battaglia on December 22, 2017, 12:27:58 AM

Transferrin saturation is usually normal to high in that trait carriers. It is low in iron deficiency and anemia of chronic disease. If you were previously iron deficient, it may be that your body is still building stores, or it may be related to your diet. My diet leaves my blood calcium level slightly below the low end of normal. My doctor said it doesn't mean anything other than reflecting my particular diet.

Title: Re: Transferrin Question
Post by: SaltySea on December 22, 2017, 01:46:32 AM

Hi Andy,

Thanks for your reply.

My transferrin saturation seems fine and within range and sometimes is high; it is the transferrin that tends to be low. Is there a difference between the two?

Thanks

Title: Re: Transferrin Question
Post by: Andy Battaglia on December 29, 2017, 12:46:55 AM

Transferrin is a protein that carries iron throughout the body and transferrin saturation is the percentage of iron-binding sites of transferrin that are being occupied by iron

Title: Re: Transferrin Question
Post by: SaltySea on January 14, 2018, 08:10:08 PM

Thanks Andy.