A patient with anemia is found to have a high level of soluble transferrin receptor (sTfR). What does this indicate?

A Iron deficiency anemia
B Anemia of chronic disease
C Erythropoietic activity and possible iron deficiency ✓
D Hemolytic anemia

Explanation

Soluble transferrin receptor (sTfR) is a marker of erythropoietic activity and iron demand. Elevated levels of sTfR indicate increased erythropoiesis and possible iron deficiency, which can be seen in various types of anemia.

Source

Clinical hematology textbooks
Hematology Hematology: Anemia Hematology: Anemia Medium MEDICAL Confidence: high