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sTfR Unit Converter
Soluble Transferrin Receptor (sTfR) is a truncated form of the transferrin receptor found on cell surfaces, particularly on erythroid precursors. Its concentration in serum is directly proportional to the total amount of cellular transferrin receptor.
Clinically, sTfR is a valuable marker for distinguishing **Iron Deficiency Anemia (IDA)** from **Anemia of Chronic Disease (ACD)**. Unlike ferritin, sTfR is not an acute-phase reactant and remains normal in inflammation unless iron deficiency co-exists. This converter facilitates switching between mass units (mg/L) and molar units (nmol/L).
Mass Units
StandardMilligrams per liter (Numerically equivalent to μg/mL).
SI / Molar Units
Clinical Context
Reference Ranges (Adults): Typically 0.76 – 1.76 mg/L (varies by assay).
Interpretation:
• Elevated: Iron Deficiency Anemia (IDA), Hemolysis, Polycythemia.
• Normal: Anemia of Chronic Disease (ACD), Renal Failure (unless ID is present).
Conversion Logic:
Based on a molecular weight of approx 85 kDa (monomer).
1 mg/L ≈ 11.8 nmol/L.
1 nmol/L ≈ 0.085 mg/L.
Clinical References
How to Use This Converter
Follow these steps to normalize sTfR values.
Enter Values
Input your laboratory results into the corresponding unit field (e.g., mg/L).
Automatic Conversion
The calculator converts between mass units and the SI molar unit.
Reset
Use the Clear button to reset all fields.
Frequently Asked Questions
Unlike Ferritin, sTfR is generally NOT affected by inflammation (it is not an acute-phase reactant). This makes it superior for detecting iron deficiency in patients with chronic inflammatory diseases.
It is the ratio of sTfR to log(Ferritin). A value > 2 usually indicates iron deficiency anemia, while < 1 indicates anemia of chronic disease.