Unsaturated Iron Binding Capacity (UIBC) Unit Converter

MedFinal Seamless Index

Unsaturated Iron Binding Capacity (UIBC) measures the amount of iron that Transferrin (the main iron transport protein) could still bind—in other words, the available reserve capacity. UIBC is directly related to Total Iron Binding Capacity (TIBC) and Serum Iron by the formula: TIBC = Serum Iron + UIBC.

Clinically, UIBC is used as part of the Iron Panel to assess the body’s iron status and storage. High UIBC levels indicate that Transferrin has many empty binding sites, which is the classic presentation of Iron Deficiency Anemia. Conversely, low UIBC means most binding sites are already occupied or the Transferrin level itself is low. This converter facilitates switching between the SI unit (µmol/L) and the conventional mass unit (µg/dL).

[Image of iron metabolism cycle]

SI Units

Recommended

µmol/L

mmol/L

Micromoles per liter (Standard International).

Conventional Units

µg/dL

ng/mL

µg/L

mg/L

Clinical Context

Reference Range (Adults): Typically 150–300 µg/dL (26.8–53.7 µmol/L).

UIBC is high in iron deficiency (lots of free transferrin ready to bind iron) and low in iron overload (Hemochromatosis) or Anemia of Chronic Disease. The conversion factor is based on the atomic weight of Fe 55.845 g/mol: 1 µmol/L ≈ 5.5845 µg/dL.

Clinical References

How to Use This Calculator

Follow these steps to get accurate clinical conversions instantly.

Enter Values

Input your laboratory results into the corresponding unit field (e.g., µg/dL). You can use either dot or comma decimals.

Automatic Conversion

The calculator works in real-time. As you type in one field, all other units (like µmol/L) are instantly updated.

Verify Units

Check the SI Units section. µmol/L is the standard for iron capacity.

Reset

Use the Clear button to reset all fields before starting a new calculation.

? Frequently Asked Questions & Tips

Is UIBC directly measured?

UIBC is often calculated by subtracting the serum iron from the total iron binding capacity (TIBC − Iron).

Why is UIBC high in anemia?

In iron deficiency, the body increases production of transferrin to maximize iron absorption, leaving many empty (unsaturated) binding sites.

Disclaimer: This calculator is provided for educational and reference purposes only. It is not intended for clinical diagnosis, treatment, or medical decision-making. Always consult a qualified healthcare professional and refer to your laboratory’s official reference ranges before interpretation.

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