The Ferritin evaluation encompasses 1 assessment with 1 indicator.

Concise Overview:

This Ferritin evaluation quantifies the concentration of ferritin in the bloodstream, a protein pivotal for iron storage within the body. Ferritin is predominantly located in the liver, spleen, and bone marrow. Utilizing the Ferritin test is essential for evaluating the body’s iron reserves and plays a vital role in diagnosing and tracking conditions related to iron.

Also Referred To As:

Serum Ferritin Test, Ferritin Level Test, Blood Ferritin Test

Method of Collection:

Venipuncture

Sample Type:

Blood Serum

Pre-Test Requirements:

Fasting or any special preparation is not necessary.

A Ferritin evaluation might be initiated in a variety of scenarios to scrutinize ferritin concentrations:

Analyzing Iron Scarcity Anemia:

The Ferritin examination is frequently utilized to evaluate the body’s iron reserves in those presumed to be suffering from iron deficiency anemia, a state marked by diminished iron levels.

Supervising Iron Treatment:

For those undergoing iron supplementation or treatment for iron scarcity anemia, this Ferritin examination is instrumental in monitoring the therapeutic response and establishing the necessity for continuous treatment.

Scrutiny of Iron Excess:

In situations where an excess of iron is suspected, such as in hereditary hemochromatosis or secondary iron overload conditions, the Ferritin test is crucial in determining the degree of iron accumulation.

Evaluating Chronic Conditions:

Certain persistent inflammatory ailments, like rheumatoid arthritis or chronic liver disease, can influence ferritin levels. The Ferritin examination is useful in appraising the iron status under these circumstances.

Ferritin is a protein in cells that stores iron, allowing the body to balance its iron levels. The small quantity of ferritin that circulates in the bloodstream reflects the total amount of stored iron in the body. The ferritin blood test measures the level of ferritin in the blood to determine how much iron is stored in the body.

In healthy individuals, about 70% of the body’s iron is incorporated into hemoglobin in red blood cells. The remaining 30% is stored mainly as ferritin or hemosiderin, a complex of iron, proteins, and other substances. Ferritin and hemosiderin are typically found in the liver, but they are also present in the bone marrow, spleen, and skeletal muscles.

When the body has insufficient iron to meet its needs, iron stores are depleted, and ferritin levels decrease. This can occur due to inadequate iron intake, poor absorption, or an increased need for iron, such as during pregnancy or in conditions causing chronic blood loss. Significant depletion of iron stores can occur before any signs of iron deficiency become apparent.

Conversely, when the body absorbs more iron than it requires, iron stores and ferritin levels increase. Over time, chronic iron overload can lead to the accumulation of iron compounds in organs, potentially resulting in organ dysfunction and failure. This can occur even with a normal diet in conditions like hemochromatosis, a genetic disorder where the body absorbs too much iron.

Lab Tests Typically Paired with a Ferritin Test:

  • Complete Blood Count (CBC): Provides a broader understanding of overall blood health.
  • Iron Total: Measures the total amount of iron in the blood.
  • Iron Total and Total Iron Binding Capacity (TIBC): Evaluates iron content alongside its carrying capacity in the blood.
  • Transferrin: Examines the protein responsible for iron transportation.
  • Comprehensive Metabolic Panel (CMP): Offers insight into various biochemical processes and organ function.
  • Lipid Panel: Assesses levels of various types of cholesterol and triglycerides.
  • Zinc Protoporphyrin (ZPP): Helps in identifying iron deficiency and certain types of anemia.

Situations Warranting a Ferritin Test:

Diagnosing and Managing Iron Deficiency Anemia:

The Ferritin test plays a vital role in identifying low iron levels and guiding treatment.

Investigating Iron Overload Conditions:

Elevated ferritin levels may indicate hereditary hemochromatosis or secondary iron overload, stemming from chronic transfusions or other medical conditions.

Evaluating Chronic Inflammatory Disorders:

Conditions like rheumatoid arthritis, chronic liver disease, or kidney dysfunction can impact ferritin levels, making this test useful for assessing iron status and guiding management.