TSAT, Iron Studies
Royal Stoke University Hospital, County Hospital, Macclesfield District General Hospital and Leighton Hospital.
Add-on requests: accepted to 72 hours post sampling
Minimum Retest Interval: 27 days
Collect the sample using normal venepuncture technique into a serum gel tube (gold-top).
When requesting repeat testing following a raised result, it is recommended that the patient is fasted overnight prior to sampling.
Samples should be sent to the laboratory on the same day as collection to ensure sample integrity is maintained. If a delay in receipt of the sample is anticipated, please contact the laboratory to discuss storage requirements.
Stable in separated serum for 5 days at room temperature, 4 days at 4-8oC and 4 days at -20oC.
For generic information on test requesting, sample labelling and packaging, and sample transport – see the frequently asked questions here.
Adult sample type:
Paediatric sample type:
Lithium-heparin plasma, Plain serum.
Based on receipt at testing site.
Within 24 hours.
|
Sex |
Age |
TSAT Range (%) |
|
All |
< 18 years |
16-40 |
|
Female |
≥ 18 years |
16-40 |
|
Male |
≥ 18 years |
16-50 |
Results outside the reference range do not necessarily indicate disease. Similarly, results within the reference range do not preclude abnormality. Please contact the Duty Biochemist for discussion of individual patient results.
Investigation of iron-deficiency anaemia, iron overload (haemochromatosis) or iron poisoning. Transferrin saturation is a calculated parameter derived from the measured transferrin and iron concentrations.
If investigating iron overload, and initial raised results should be confirmed on a fasting repeat sample.
Haemochromatosis (HFE) genotyping should be considered if TSAT and ferritin are persistently raised.
Factors that significantly affect result
There are a number of non-pathological factors that can influence levels of specific analytes, giving falsely elevated or reduced levels. If you require more information regarding the effects of these factors on the individual test results, please contact the Duty Biochemist.
Serum/plasma samples are routinely screened for the presence of haemolysis, icterus and lipaemia. Results are not reported if one or more of these has been detected at levels deemed to have had a significant impact on the accuracy of the test.
For more information, please see the following: Transferrin Saturation – Lab Tests Online
Reviewed / Updated On: 24/10/2025
