Soluble Transferrin Receptor sTfR Serum Test
Comprehensive Iron Deficiency Diagnosis
The Soluble Transferrin Receptor sTfR Serum Test represents a significant advancement in hematological diagnostics, offering precise assessment of iron status and erythropoietic activity. This sophisticated laboratory analysis measures the concentration of soluble transferrin receptors circulating in the bloodstream, providing clinicians with critical information about iron availability and red blood cell production efficiency.
What Does the sTfR Test Measure?
The Soluble Transferrin Receptor sTfR Serum Test specifically quantifies the concentration of transferrin receptors that have been cleaved from cell membranes and released into circulation. These receptors play a fundamental role in cellular iron uptake, and their soluble form serves as a reliable biomarker for several key clinical parameters:
- Iron deficiency status and severity
- Erythropoietic activity and bone marrow function
- Functional iron availability for hemoglobin synthesis
- Response to iron supplementation therapy
Clinical Importance and Diagnostic Value
This test provides distinct advantages over traditional iron studies because sTfR levels remain stable during inflammatory conditions, unlike ferritin which can be elevated in acute phase responses. This characteristic makes the sTfR test particularly valuable for distinguishing between true iron deficiency anemia and anemia of chronic disease, a common diagnostic challenge in clinical practice.
Who Should Consider This Test?
The Soluble Transferrin Receptor sTfR Serum Test is recommended for individuals experiencing symptoms or clinical conditions associated with iron metabolism disorders:
Symptoms and Clinical Indicators
- Unexplained fatigue, weakness, or exercise intolerance
- Pallor, shortness of breath, or palpitations
- Poor concentration, cognitive changes, or irritability
- Pica (craving for non-food substances like ice or dirt)
- Restless legs syndrome or sleep disturbances
- Hair loss, brittle nails, or angular cheilitis
High-Risk Patient Groups
- Patients with chronic inflammatory conditions (rheumatoid arthritis, IBD, CKD)
- Individuals with unexplained microcytic anemia
- Pregnant women and women with heavy menstrual bleeding
- Children and adolescents during growth spurts
- Vegetarians, vegans, or individuals with poor dietary iron intake
- Patients undergoing chemotherapy or with malignancy
Key Benefits of sTfR Testing
Enhanced Diagnostic Accuracy
The Soluble Transferrin Receptor sTfR Serum Test offers superior diagnostic precision compared to conventional iron studies. Its ability to differentiate between various types of anemia ensures appropriate treatment selection and prevents unnecessary iron supplementation in patients with anemia of chronic disease.
Monitoring Treatment Effectiveness
This test serves as an excellent tool for monitoring response to iron therapy. Changes in sTfR levels provide early indicators of treatment efficacy, allowing healthcare providers to adjust therapeutic regimens promptly and optimize patient outcomes.
Clinical Applications
- Early detection of iron deficiency before anemia develops
- Assessment of functional iron deficiency in chronic diseases
- Evaluation of erythropoietic activity in various hematological disorders
- Monitoring iron status during pregnancy and growth periods
Understanding Your Test Results
Interpretation Guidelines
Your sTfR test results will be interpreted in the context of your complete clinical picture, including other laboratory parameters and symptoms. Generally:
Elevated sTfR Levels
- Typically indicates iron deficiency anemia
- Suggests increased erythropoietic activity
- May reflect enhanced bone marrow response to anemia
Normal sTfR Levels
- Suggests adequate iron stores and normal erythropoiesis
- In the presence of anemia, may indicate anemia of chronic disease
- Could suggest other causes of anemia unrelated to iron metabolism
Low sTfR Levels
- May indicate reduced erythropoietic activity
- Could suggest bone marrow suppression or aplastic anemia
>Often seen in chronic kidney disease with reduced erythropoietin production
Clinical Correlation
Your healthcare provider will correlate sTfR results with other laboratory findings, including complete blood count, ferritin, iron studies, and inflammatory markers to establish a comprehensive diagnosis and develop an appropriate treatment plan.
Test Information and Pricing
| Test Parameter | Details |
|---|---|
| Test Name | Soluble Transferrin Receptor sTfR Serum Test |
| Discount Price | $44 USD |
| Regular Price | $48 USD |
| Turnaround Time | Same day (Sample by 9 am Mon/Thu) |
| Sample Type | 2 mL (1 mL min.) serum from 1 SST |
| Shipping Requirements | Refrigerated or frozen |
| Methodology | Nephelometry |
| Preparation | No special preparation required |
Nationwide Accessibility
We proudly serve patients across the United States with convenient testing locations in all major metropolitan areas including New York, Los Angeles, Chicago, Houston, Phoenix, Philadelphia, San Antonio, San Diego, Dallas, San Jose, Austin, Jacksonville, Fort Worth, Columbus, Charlotte, San Francisco, Indianapolis, Seattle, Denver, Washington DC, Boston, El Paso, Nashville, Detroit, Oklahoma City, Portland, Las Vegas, Memphis, Louisville, Baltimore, Milwaukee, Albuquerque, Tucson, Fresno, Sacramento, Mesa, Kansas City, Atlanta, Colorado Springs, Omaha, Raleigh, Miami, Long Beach, Virginia Beach, Oakland, Minneapolis, Tulsa, Arlington, and Tampa.
Take Control of Your Health Today
Don’t let unexplained fatigue or anemia symptoms compromise your quality of life. The Soluble Transferrin Receptor sTfR Serum Test provides the precise diagnostic information needed to guide effective treatment decisions. Our state-of-the-art laboratory facilities, experienced hematology specialists, and commitment to accurate results ensure you receive the highest quality diagnostic care.
Ready to Schedule Your Test?
Contact our dedicated patient care team today to book your Soluble Transferrin Receptor sTfR Serum Test. Call us at +1(267) 388-9828 or visit our website to schedule your appointment. Take the first step toward understanding your iron status and optimizing your health with comprehensive diagnostic testing from General Genetics Corporation.
