[Transferrin in various hematological syndrome]

In 100 patients with various haematological syndromes and in 22 healthy subjects serum transferrin was determined by the method of radial immunodiffusion of Mancini. The results were correlated with total iron-binding capacity, iron concentration, beta1 globulin and albumin levels. A statistically significant rise in serum transferrin concentration was demonstrated only in patients with sideropenic anaemia. In the remaining groups of patients transferrin concentration was decreased without regard to associated disturbances of iron metabolism and iron level. The comparison of the total iron-binding capacity with transferrin level determined by radial immunodiffusion may suggest presence of iron-binding proteins other than transferrin.