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HelpEpic Code LAB1231253 Soluble Transferrin Receptor
Test Name Alias
sTfR, STFR | SHO1231253 | 123010481
Interface Order Alias
1231253
Clinical Information
This assay aids in the diagnosis of iron deficiency anemia.
Collection Instructions
Specimen Collection: Blood
Container(s): Preferred: One Gold-top SST tube.
Acceptable: Red-top tube (plain)
Minimum Volume to Collect: 2.0 mL
Neonate Volume to Collect: 2.0 mL
Collection Instructions:
Physician Office/Draw Specimen Preparation:
- Let specimen clot 30 – 60 minutes then centrifuge to separate serum from cells. Refrigerate (2-8°C or 36-46°F) the centrifuged collection tube prior to transport. (Minimum Serum: 0.5 mL)
- Transport: Centrifuged collection tube refrigerated (2-8°C or 36-46°F). (Minimum Serum: 0.5mL).
In-Lab Processing
- Let specimen clot 30 – 60 minutes then immediately centrifuge to separate serum from cells. Room temperature is acceptable for a maximum of two hours. (Minimum Serum: 0.5mL)
Rejection Criteria
- Plasma specimens.
- Severely hemolyzed, lipemic or icteric specimens.
Specimen Stability
Specimen Stability for Testing:
Centrifuged SST Tubes and Microtainers® with Separator Gels
Room Temperature (20-26°C or 68-78.8°F): 2 hours
Refrigerated (2-8°C or 36-46°F): 7 days
Frozen (-20°C/-4°F or below): Unacceptable
Red-top Tubes and Microtainers® without Separator Gels
Room Temperature (20-26°C or 68-78.8°F): 2 hours
Refrigerated (2-8°C or 36-46°F): Unacceptable
Frozen (-20°C/-4°F or below): Unacceptable
Serum Specimens (Pour-Overs)
Room Temperature (20-26°C or 68-78.8°F): 2 hours
Refrigerated (2-8°C or 36-46°F): 7 days
Frozen (-20°C/-4°F or below): 6 months
Specimen Storage in Department Prior to Disposal:
Refrigerated (2-8°C or 36-46°F): 7 days
Reflex Information
Reflex approved by Medical Executive Committee. Please see link: Reflex Testing Document
Test Frequency
Tuesday, Friday.
Results available within 3 business days.
Reference Range
12.2-27.3 nmol/L
Performing Department
East Special Chemistry
Performing Department Laboratory Location
Corewell Health Reference Laboratory EAST: Royal Oak Special Chemistry Laboratory
Methodology
Chemiluminescent Enzyme immunoassay.
Test Background
The soluble transferrin receptor (sTfR) is a soluble truncated form of the transferrin receptor. sTfR levels rise significantly as the iron level in tissue decreases, and the demand for iron increases because of expansion of the erythroid marrow. Measurement of ferritin is used for the diagnosis of iron deficiency. However, since ferritin is an acute phase reactant, it can be elevated in hospitalized or acutely ill patients. sTfR is not an acute phase reactant, and therefore may be useful in evaluating patients suspicious for iron deficiency in which ferritin concentration does not correlate with iron status. This can occur in patients with inflammatory conditions or chronic diseases.
CPT
84238
CDM Code
3018423801
Epic Test ID
123010481
LOINC
30248-9
Mayo Access Code
SHO1231253
Reviewed Date
Added: 7/16/2025
Orderable Regions
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