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Total Iron Binding Capacity (TIBC) Unit Converter
Total Iron Binding Capacity (TIBC) is a measure of the maximum amount of iron that can be carried in the blood plasma, which primarily reflects the concentration of the iron-transport protein Transferrin. TIBC is a key component of the iron panel used to diagnose different types of anemia.
Clinically, TIBC is used in conjunction with Serum Iron and Ferritin to calculate Transferrin Saturation (Iron Saturation = (Serum Iron / TIBC) × 100). TIBC is typically elevated in cases of iron deficiency anemia (as the body produces more transferrin hoping to find more iron) and low in anemia of chronic disease or malnutrition. This converter facilitates switching between the SI unit (µmol/L) and the conventional mass unit (µg/dL).
[Image of iron metabolism cycle]SI Units
RecommendedMicromoles per liter (Standard International).
Conventional Units
Clinical Context
Reference Range (Adults): Typically 250–450 µg/dL (44.8–80.6 µmol/L).
TIBC is high in Iron Deficiency Anemia because the liver produces more transferrin to maximize iron binding. It is low in conditions of iron overload (Hemochromatosis) or chronic inflammation. 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
No. 1 µg/dL = 10 ng/mL.
TIBC is an indirect measure of Transferrin; the greater the concentration of Transferrin, the higher the total iron binding capacity.