Which statement correctly describes total iron-binding capacity (TIBC) in iron deficiency anemia vs anemia of chronic disease?

Which statement correctly describes total iron-binding capacity (TIBC) in iron deficiency anemia vs anemia of chronic disease?

• A. TIBC is increased in iron deficiency anemia and decreased in anemia of chronic disease
• B. TIBC is decreased in iron deficiency anemia and increased in anemia of chronic disease
• C. TIBC is unchanged in both
• D. TIBC is not informative

Answer: (A)

Total iron-binding capacity (TIBC) reflects how much iron-binding protein, mainly transferrin, is available in the blood. In iron deficiency anemia, the body increases transferrin production to maximize iron capture from any available source, so TIBC goes up. In anemia of chronic disease, inflammatory signals raise hepcidin and trap iron in storage sites, while transferrin behaves like a negative acute-phase reactant and decreases, reducing TIBC. Therefore, TIBC is typically increased in iron deficiency anemia and decreased in anemia of chronic disease.

Total iron-binding capacity (TIBC) reflects how much iron-binding protein, mainly transferrin, is available in the blood. In iron deficiency anemia, the body increases transferrin production to maximize iron capture from any available source, so TIBC goes up. In anemia of chronic disease, inflammatory signals raise hepcidin and trap iron in storage sites, while transferrin behaves like a negative acute-phase reactant and decreases, reducing TIBC. Therefore, TIBC is typically increased in iron deficiency anemia and decreased in anemia of chronic disease.