Ferritin Test Purpose, procedure, Result interpretation:

Ferritin is a protein that stores iron in the body. It is found in cells throughout the body, including the liver, spleen, bone marrow, and muscles. The amount of ferritin in the blood can indicate how much iron the body has stored and can be used as a marker for iron-deficiency anemia.

Also Known as	Ferritin, Serum Ferritin
Test Purpose	A ferritin test is a blood test that measures the level of ferritin
Test Preparations	No special preparation required
Test Components	Serum ferritin
Specimen	2 mL (1 mL min.) Serum from 1 SST.
Stability Room	8 hrs
Stability Refrigerated	48 hrs
Stability Frozen	4 Weeks
Method	ELISA, CLIA
Download Report	Ferritin sample Report

Definations of Ferritin :

1. Ferritin is a protein that stores iron in the body, found in cells throughout the body including the liver, spleen, bone marrow, and muscles.
2. Ferritin is a blood test that measures the amount of ferritin in the blood, which can indicate the amount of iron stored in the body.
3. Ferritin is an iron-binding protein that plays a crucial role in maintaining iron homeostasis.
4. Ferritin is a protein that can be used as a marker for iron-deficiency anemia and for monitoring the effectiveness of iron replacement therapy.
5. Ferritin is a protein that can be elevated in certain conditions such as iron overload (hemochromatosis) or inflammation.
6. Ferritin is a protein that plays a vital role in the body’s immune system, as well as in the production of red blood cells.
7. Ferritin is a protein that can be used in a diagnostic test to determine the amount of iron present in the body.

Why to get tested ?

1. To diagnose and monitor iron-deficiency anemia: Low levels of ferritin in the blood can indicate that the body does not have enough iron, which is a common cause of anemia. A ferritin test can help diagnose anemia and monitor the effectiveness of iron replacement therapy.
2. To evaluate and monitor iron overload: High levels of ferritin in the blood can indicate that the body has too much iron, which can occur in conditions such as hemochromatosis. A ferritin test can help evaluate the presence of iron overload and monitor the effectiveness of treatment.
3. To monitor chronic disease: Ferritin levels can be elevated in certain chronic diseases such as cancer, rheumatoid arthritis, and inflammatory bowel disease.
4. To monitor response to treatment: Ferritin levels can be used to monitor response to treatment for conditions such as anemia, iron overload, and chronic disease.
5. To evaluate for other health conditions: Ferritin levels can be affected by other health conditions, such as liver disease, malnutrition, and certain medications, so a ferritin test may be used as part of a larger evaluation.
6. To monitor the effectiveness of iron replacement therapy
7. To detect iron overload or iron deficiency
8. To evaluate for other health conditions that may affect iron metabolism
9. To monitor response to treatment for conditions that may impact ferritin levels.

When to get tested ?

1. When experiencing symptoms of anemia, such as fatigue, weakness, and shortness of breath, as a low ferritin level may indicate iron-deficiency anemia.
2. When experiencing symptoms of iron overload, such as joint pain, abdominal pain, and diabetes, as a high ferritin level may indicate hemochromatosis or other conditions of iron overload.
3. When being evaluated for chronic diseases, such as cancer, rheumatoid arthritis, or inflammatory bowel disease, as ferritin levels can be elevated in these conditions.
4. When being evaluated for liver disease, as ferritin levels can be affected by liver function.
5. When starting or adjusting iron replacement therapy, as ferritin levels can be used to monitor the effectiveness of treatment.
6. When experiencing other symptoms such as hair loss, skin pigmentation, or brittle nails which may be related to ferritin level.
7. As part of a routine health screening for individuals who are at risk for iron-deficiency anemia or iron overload, such as pregnant women, vegetarians, and individuals with a history of blood loss.

Symptoms of low levels of ferritin and iron :

Symptoms of low levels of ferritin and iron (iron-deficiency anemia) can include:

1. Fatigue and weakness: The body needs iron to produce hemoglobin, which carries oxygen to the cells. Without enough iron, the body’s tissues and organs do not get enough oxygen, causing fatigue and weakness.
2. Shortness of breath: Iron-deficiency anemia can cause the heart to work harder to pump oxygen-poor blood through the body, leading to shortness of breath.
3. Pale skin: Iron-deficiency anemia can cause the skin to look pale or washed out due to the low levels of hemoglobin in the blood.
4. Brittle nails: Iron-deficiency anemia can cause the nails to become thin, brittle, and spoon-shaped.
5. Headaches: Iron-deficiency anemia can cause headaches due to the lack of oxygen being delivered to the brain.
6. Dizziness and lightheadedness: The lack of oxygen to the brain can also cause dizziness and lightheadedness.
7. Cold hands and feet: Iron-deficiency anemia can cause poor circulation, which can lead to cold hands and feet.
8. A sore or swollen tongue: Iron-deficiency anemia can cause the tongue to become sore or swollen due to the lack of iron to produce enough red blood cells.
9. Irritability and difficulty concentrating: The lack of oxygen to the brain can also cause irritability and difficulty concentrating.
10. Cravings for non-nutritive substances such as ice, starch, or clay (Pica)

It’s important to note that some symptoms may not be visible until the anemia is severe, and some people may not have any symptoms at all. It’s always best to consult your healthcare provider if you have any concerns about your health.

Symptoms of High levels of ferritin and iron :

Symptoms of high levels of ferritin and iron (iron overload) can include:

1. Joint Pain: High levels of iron can cause damage to the joints, leading to pain and stiffness.
2. Abdominal pain: High levels of iron can cause damage to the liver, leading to abdominal pain and discomfort.
3. Diabetes: High levels of iron can lead to insulin resistance, which is a risk factor for diabetes.
4. Fatigue and weakness: High levels of iron can cause damage to the organs and tissues, leading to fatigue and weakness.
5. Skin pigmentation: High levels of iron can cause the skin to darken, particularly in areas exposed to the sun.
6. Loss of sex drive and impotence
7. Heart problems: Iron overload can cause damage to the heart, leading to heart problems such as arrhythmias and heart failure.
8. Liver problems: Iron overload can cause damage to the liver, leading to liver problems such as cirrhosis and liver cancer.
9. Increased risk of infections: High levels of iron can weaken the immune system, increasing the risk of infections.
10. Increased risk of cancer: Iron overload can increase the risk of certain types of cancer such as liver cancer and colon cancer.

It’s important to note that some symptoms may not be visible until the iron overload is severe, and some people may not have any symptoms at all. It’s always best to consult your healthcare provider if you have any concerns about your health.

Preparation of sample :

No special preparation required

Ferritin is typically measured through a blood test, and the preparation for the test typically involves the following steps:

1. Fasting: You may be asked to fast for a period of time before the test, usually 8-12 hours, in order to ensure accurate results.
2. Avoiding certain medications: Certain medications, such as iron supplements and blood thinners, can affect ferritin levels. You should inform your healthcare provider of any medications you are currently taking.
3. Blood draw: A healthcare professional will draw a sample of blood from a vein in your arm using a needle and vial or tube. The blood sample will then be sent to a laboratory for analysis.
4. Avoiding certain activities: You should avoid alcohol and strenuous exercise for 24 hours before the test.

It is always best to follow your healthcare provider’s instructions for preparation and to inform them of any questions or concerns you may have.

Sample Required :

2 mL (1 mL min.) Serum from 1 SST. Ship refrigerated or frozen.

Normal Values :

Source 1:

Age and sex	Ferritin level in ng/mL	Ferritin level in mcg/L
Child/adolescent	Newborn = 25 to 200<one month = 200 to 6002 to 5 months = 50 to 2006 months to 15 years = 7 to 142
Male	12 to 300	12 to 300
Female	10 to 150	10 to 150

Source 2:

1. Children = 7 to 140 ng/ml.
   1. Newborn = 25 to 200 ng/ml
   2. <One month  = 200 to 600 ng/mL.
   3. 2 to 5 months  = 50 to 200 ng/mL.
   4. 6 months to 15 years    = 7 to 142 ng/mL.
2. Adult male = 20 to 250 ng/ml
3. Adult Female = 10 to 120 ng/ml

Source 3:

•  Male = 12 to 300 ng/mL (12 to 300 µg/L)
• Female = 10 to 150 ng/mL  (10 to 150 µg/L)
• Children
  • Newborn = 25 to 200ng/mL
  • 0ne month = 200 to 600 ng/mL
  • 2 to 5 months = 50 to 200 ng/mL
  • 6 months to 15 years = 7 to 142 ng/mL

Ferritin Level increased in :

Ferritin levels can be increased in several conditions, including:

1. Iron overload: High levels of ferritin can indicate that the body has too much iron, which can occur in conditions such as hemochromatosis.
2. Chronic disease: Ferritin levels can be elevated in certain chronic diseases such as cancer, rheumatoid arthritis, and inflammatory bowel disease.
3. Liver disease: Ferritin levels can be affected by liver function and can be increased in liver disease such as liver cirrhosis
4. Inflammation: Ferritin can be an acute phase protein and its levels can be increased in response to inflammation, infection or injury.
5. Some blood disorders such as thalassemia.
6. Alcoholism: Ferritin levels can be elevated in people who have chronic alcohol use disorder.
7. Certain medications: Some medications can also increase ferritin levels, including certain types of hormones and immunosuppressant drugs.
8. Ferritin levels may increase with age in males and postmenopausal females.
9. A marked increase was seen in iron overload, e.g., Hemochromatosis and certain liver diseases.
10. A slightly increased is seen in acute leukemia.
11. Inflammatory diseases like pulmonary infections, osteomyelitis, and chronic UTIs.
12. Rheumatoid arthritis, SLE.
13. Certain chronic liver diseases.
14. Acute myeloblastic and Lymphoblastic leukemia.
15. Hodgkin’s lymphoma and breast cancers.
16. It may be seen in viral hepatitis or after toxic liver injury. In that case, ferritin is released from the damaged liver cells.

It’s important to note that a single high ferritin level does not necessarily mean that a person has an underlying condition, additional test may be needed for a diagnosis.

Ferritin level decreased in :

Ferritin levels can be decreased in several conditions, including:

1. Iron-deficiency anemia: Low levels of ferritin can indicate that the body does not have enough iron, which is a common cause of anemia.
2. Malnutrition: Ferritin levels can be decreased in individuals who have inadequate dietary intake of iron, protein, or other nutrients.
3. Blood loss: Ferritin levels can be decreased in individuals who have chronic blood loss, such as from heavy menstrual periods or gastrointestinal bleeding.
4. Pregnancy: Ferritin levels can be decreased in pregnant women due to the increased demand for iron to support the growth and development of the fetus.
5. Chronic kidney disease: Ferritin levels can be decreased in individuals with chronic kidney disease due to the decreased production of erythropoietin, which stimulates the production of red blood cells.
6. Some genetic disorders such as aceruloplasminemia, Atransferrinemia, and Hereditary hemochromatosis.
7. Some autoimmune disorders such as celiac disease, Crohn’s disease, and Scleroderma
8. Some medications such as anticonvulsants and proton pump inhibitors

It’s important to note that a single low ferritin level does not necessarily mean that a person has an underlying condition, additional test may be needed for a diagnosis.

Various Types of Anemia and Lab Workup :

Disease	Ferritin	Transferrin sat.	Iron	TIBC
Acute blood loss	normal	Low	low	normal
Chronic blood loss	low	low	low	increased
Hemolytic anemia	increased	increased	increased	low
Iron deficiency	low	low	low	increased
Pregnancy	low	low	low	increased
Acute inflammation	increased	increased	normal	low
Hemochromatosis	increased	increased	increased	low
Chronic diseases	increased	low	low	low
Liver diseases (necrosis)	increased	increased	increased	increased
Estrogen therapy	Normal	Low	Increased	Increased

Conclusion :

In conclusion, ferritin is a protein that stores iron in the body and its levels can be measured through a blood test. The test is used to diagnose and monitor iron-deficiency anemia, evaluate and monitor iron overload, monitor chronic disease, monitor response to treatment, and evaluate for other health conditions. High ferritin levels can indicate conditions such as iron overload or chronic diseases, while low ferritin levels can indicate iron-deficiency anemia or other conditions. It is important to follow your healthcare provider’s instructions for preparation and to inform them of any questions or concerns you may have. A single high or low ferritin level does not necessarily mean that a person has an underlying condition, additional test may be needed for a diagnosis.

---

Possible References Used

---