Which lab value is typically elevated in individuals with iron deficiency anemia?

In individuals with iron deficiency anemia, a typical lab value that shows an elevation is total iron-binding capacity (TIBC). This occurs because the body attempts to compensate for low iron levels by increasing the production of transferrin, the plasma protein that carries iron. As iron stores deplete, the liver produces more transferrin to transport the available iron, leading to an increase in TIBC.

The other options generally behave differently in cases of iron deficiency anemia. Ferritin levels usually decrease because ferritin reflects the body's iron stores, which are low in this condition. Transferrin saturation, which indicates how much iron is bound to transferrin, is also low due to the decreased availability of iron. The reticulocyte count can vary; however, it is typically low or normal in this type of anemia since iron is necessary for effective red blood cell production. Understanding these changes in lab values helps in diagnosing and managing iron deficiency anemia effectively.