Soluble Transferrin Receptor (sTfR) Serum Test
Short Name: sTfR Serum
Also known as: sTfR, Soluble Transferrin Receptor, sTfR Serum
Soluble Transferrin Receptor (sTfR) Serum Test test available at DNA Labs India for ₹1,755. Uses Nephelometry on Serum samples. Results in Samples are accepted Monday/Thursday by 9 am; reports are issued the same day.. Free home collection in 300+ cities across India.
🩺 Medically Reviewed By
Dr Pasupathy Arumugam
Consultant Pathologist · Reg: 21521
Last reviewed: September 7, 2026
Overview
The purpose of the sTfR test is to evaluate iron deficiency and provide a supporting marker for differentiating iron deficiency anaemia from anaemia of chronic disease, particularly when ferritin is affected by inflammatory processes.
- Test Code
- 3650
- Price
- ₹1,755
- Sample Type
- Serum
- Result Time
- Samples are accepted Monday/Thursday by 9 am; reports are issued the same day.
- Fasting Required
- No
- Method
- Nephelometry
Sample Collection
No special preparation is required. No fasting is required. Continue regular diet and medications unless advised otherwise.
Method: Venipuncture
Laboratory Analysis
A blood sample is collected from a vein in the arm using a sterile needle. The procedure is quick and generally painless.
Report Delivery
You may resume normal activities immediately. Apply pressure to the puncture site to prevent bruising.
Timeline: Samples are accepted Monday/Thursday by 9 am; reports are issued the same day.
Patient Instructions
About This Test
Who Should Get This Test
The purpose of the sTfR test is to evaluate iron deficiency and provide a supporting marker for differentiating iron deficiency anaemia from anaemia of chronic disease, particularly when ferritin is affected by inflammatory processes.
How to Prepare
- No fasting required
- Inform your doctor about any iron supplements or ongoing medication
- Sample is collected at any time of the day
Doctor's Notes
Reviewed by Dr Pasupathy Arumugam — MBBS, MD (Pathology) · Reg. No. 21521
"The sTfR assay is especially useful when ferritin is inconclusive due to inflammation. It provides a clearer picture of iron deficiency."
Last medically reviewed: September 7, 2026
Test Parameters & Specifications
Sample Stability
- Hemolyzed sample
- Incorrectly labelled specimen
- Sample not stored appropriately
- Insufficient volume
Understanding Your Results
Suggests iron deficiency; possible IDA.
Iron stores likely adequate; consider anaemia of chronic disease.
May indicate increased erythropoiesis as in haemolysis.
Consult a physician if you experience fatigue, weakness, dizziness, shortness of breath, pallor or persistent headaches. A doctor can determine whether sTfR testing is appropriate for your clinical condition.
Limitations
- ⚠Elevated sTfR is not specific to iron deficiency; it may also be high in conditions with expanded erythroid activity.
- ⚠Reference ranges vary with age, gender, assay method and laboratory.
- ⚠Results should be interpreted in conjunction with the complete blood count, serum iron, TIBC, ferritin and clinical findings.
Risks & Considerations
- ●Minor bruising
- ●Dizziness
- ●Rare infection
Interfering Factors
- ●Hemolysis or lipemia in the blood sample.
- ●Prolonged storage at room temperature.
- ●Conditions with increased erythropoiesis such as haemolytic anaemia or thalassaemia can also raise sTfR.
Compare With Similar Tests
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| Comparison | Soluble Transferrin Receptor (sTfR) Serum Test |
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the Soluble Transferrin Receptor (sTfR) Serum Test?
Why is the sTfR test done?
Do I need to fast for this test?
What sample is needed?
How should the sample be transported?
How long does it take to get results?
What do high levels of sTfR mean?
Can sTfR distinguish between iron deficiency anaemia and anaemia of chronic disease?
Are there any interfering factors?
Is home sample collection available?
What is the cost of the test?
Who should take this test?
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