Definition

A ferritin test measures the amount of ferritin in your body, reflecting your body's stored iron levels.

Ferritin is a protein that binds and stores iron, primarily found in the liver, spleen, skeletal muscles, and bone marrow. Iron is crucial for producing healthy red blood cells, which transport oxygen from the lungs throughout the body. Additionally, iron plays a significant role in muscle health, bone marrow function, and overall body processes.

Excess iron is stored in ferritin for future use, typically in the liver and immune cells. When the body requires iron, cells release ferritin into the bloodstream. Thus, ferritin levels in the blood indicate the amount of stored iron in the body.

Both excessively low and high ferritin levels can have serious health consequences.

Indications

A ferritin test may be recommended by your doctor if you exhibit symptoms of iron deficiency or overload. It is used to:

• Diagnose or rule out conditions related to abnormal iron levels.
  • Hemochromatosis, a condition characterized by excessive iron in the body.
  • Iron-deficiency anemia, which results in reduced red blood cell production.
  • Liver disorders, where much of the body's ferritin is stored.
  • Restless legs syndrome, a condition involving discomfort or burning sensations in the legs and an uncontrollable urge to move them.
  • Adult-Onset Still's Disease (AOSD), marked by joint pain, fever, itching, and elevated ferritin levels.
• Monitor chronic conditions affecting iron levels, such as cancer, kidney disorders, and autoimmune diseases.

Contraindications

There are no specific medical conditions that prevent a blood ferritin test from being conducted.

Preparations Before the Test

A ferritin test typically requires fasting. You will need to refrain from eating for several hours before the test, which is generally scheduled in the morning. Notify your doctor if you are taking medications such as antacids, NSAIDs, or iron supplements, or if your diet includes iron-rich foods like meat, green vegetables, nuts, or milk, as these can influence the test's accuracy.

Test Procedure

The ferritin test is straightforward. A laboratory technician will sterilize your arm with alcohol and collect a small amount of blood from a vein using a sterile syringe. For infants, blood is drawn from the heel. The collected sample is then placed into a test tube and analyzed under a microscope or using specialized laboratory equipment.

The risks associated with this test are minimal, though some individuals may experience mild discomfort, pain, or dizziness during the blood draw, which typically resolves quickly.

Normal and Abnormal Values

Normal ferritin levels are measured in nanograms per milliliter (ng/mL):

Ferritin levels above 1000 ng/mL are considered excessively high, while levels below the lower limit of the normal range indicate deficiency.

Results and Recommendations (Further Testing)

Low

Low ferritin levels may suggest:

• Iron-deficiency anemia, a condition where insufficient red blood cells are produced, potentially leading to heart problems, infections, impaired growth in children, and other health complications if untreated.
• Blood loss, such as from the digestive tract, often due to medications like NSAIDs.
• Poor iron absorption, possibly related to dietary restrictions or programs.
• Drug interactions, such as those caused by antacids that impair iron absorption.

Your doctor may advise additional tests, including serum iron levels, total iron-binding capacity (TIBC), and transferrin saturation, to better understand your condition.

Normal

Ferritin levels within the normal range suggest balanced iron stores and overall good health. Maintain this balance by eating a nutritious diet, staying physically active, and scheduling regular health check-ups.

High

Elevated ferritin levels indicate excessive iron storage and may result from:

• Liver diseases
• Alcohol consumption disorders
• Hemochromatosis (excessive iron absorption)
• Hyperthyroidism
• Certain cancers, such as leukemia, lymphoma, or breast cancer
• Recent blood transfusions or iron replacement therapies

Consult the Right Doctor

If your ferritin levels fall outside the normal range, consult a general practitioner to determine the appropriate diagnosis and treatment. Factors such as medications, lifestyle, diet, or underlying medical conditions may contribute to abnormal results.

For more specialized concerns, an internist can offer further evaluation and therapy. In pediatric cases, a pediatrician can provide tailored recommendations and treatment options.

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