FERRITIN
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Certified Labs
NABH Accredited
60 mins collection
Not specified
Reports in
3 hrs
Measures
Ferritin protein level in blood serum
Identifies
Assesses body’s iron stores; diagnoses iron deficiency anaemia or iron overload (hemochromatosis)
About The Test
What Is the Ferritin Test and Why Is It Important?
The Ferritin test measures how much ferritin (iron storage protein) is in your bloodstream. Most iron in the body is stored in ferritin inside cells; only a small portion circulates in the blood. Measuring this circulating ferritin gives a good estimate of your total iron stores.
Ferritin is vital in detecting iron deficiency (which leads to anaemia) and iron overload (which can damage organs). The test is part of an "iron studies" panel that may include serum iron, TIBC, and transferrin saturation.
Ferritin can also rise due to inflammation, so results must be interpreted in context.
What Does the Ferritin Test Measure?
The test measures ferritin concentration in your blood. Because ferritin reflects iron stores, low levels suggest iron deficiency, while high levels suggest iron overload or inflammation.
Ferritin is also an acute-phase reactant, meaning levels rise in response to illness or stress. Doctors at Cadabam’s Diagnostics consider medical history and other tests to ensure accurate interpretation.
When Is the Ferritin Test Usually Taken?
Recommended when there are:
- Symptoms of Iron Deficiency: Fatigue, pale skin, dizziness, shortness of breath
- Symptoms of Iron Overload: Joint pain, weight loss, liver issues, fatigue
- Ongoing Iron Therapy: To monitor treatment
- Screening for Hemochromatosis: Especially if there's a family history
- General Health Checks/Anaemia Investigation: To identify cause of anaemia
Are There Any Risks or Limitations?
Risks
Standard blood draw risks:
- Mild pain or bruising
- Light-headedness
- Rarely, infection at puncture site
Limitations
- False Elevation from Inflammation: Can be elevated even if iron levels are normal
- Medication or Transfusion Effects: Iron supplements or transfusions can alter results
- Must Be Interpreted with Other Tests: Not a standalone diagnostic tool
List of Parameters
What Parameters Are Evaluated?
- Ferritin Concentration: Reported in ng/mL or µg/L (equivalent units)
Often evaluated with:
- Serum Iron
- TIBC (Total Iron Binding Capacity)
- Transferrin Saturation
Why This Test
Who Should Consider Taking the Ferritin Test?
- Individuals with Symptoms: Related to low or high iron
- Chronic Illness Patients: Especially liver, kidney, or inflammatory conditions
- Those with Family History of Hemochromatosis
- Patients Taking Iron Supplements
- Vegetarians/Vegans: May have lower iron stores
- Patients with Anaemia: Unexplained by routine blood count
Benefits
The Advantages of the Ferritin Test for Your Health
- Early Iron Deficiency Detection
- Diagnosis of Iron Overload Conditions
- Helps Classify Type of Anaemia
- Guides Iron Therapy and Monitoring
- Tracks Treatment Effectiveness
What Conditions Can the Ferritin Test Help Diagnose?
- Iron Deficiency Anaemia: Low ferritin indicates depleted iron stores
- Hemochromatosis: High ferritin, especially with high transferrin saturation
- Anaemia of Chronic Disease: Ferritin may appear normal or high despite low iron availability
- Restless Legs Syndrome: Low ferritin may contribute to symptoms
- Liver Disease: High ferritin due to liver damage
Test Preparation
Preparing for Your Ferritin Test
- Fasting: Usually not required unless part of a broader panel
- Instructions: Stay hydrated; inform doctor of recent supplements or transfusions
- Eligibility: Safe for all ages
- Procedure: Blood draw from arm by trained staff
Test Results
Interpreting the Results of Your Ferritin Test Your result will be compared to Cadabam’s Diagnostics' reference range. Interpretation varies by age, sex, and health condition.
| Parameter/Analyte | Normal Range | Interpretation of High/Low Values |
|---|---|---|
| Serum Ferritin | Male: 20–300 ng/mL Female: 10–150 ng/mL | Low: Suggests iron deficiency. The lower the value, the more depleted the iron stores. Strongly indicates [Iron Deficiency Anaemia]. High: May suggest iron overload (e.g., [Hemochromatosis]), but can also result from inflammation, infection, liver disease, alcohol use, or certain cancers. Further testing is often needed. |
FAQs
What is the ferritin test for?
It measures iron stored in your body and helps diagnose iron-related conditions.
Do I need to fast?
Usually not, unless your doctor advises fasting for other tests.
What does low ferritin mean?
It means your iron stores are low – a common cause of anaemia.
What causes high ferritin besides iron overload?
Inflammation, liver disease, alcohol use, infections, and cancer.
When will I get results?
Typically, within 24–48 hours at Cadabam’s Diagnostics.
What if my ferritin is abnormal?
Your doctor will evaluate next steps, which may include further tests or treatment.