Ferritin Blood Test
The ferritin blood test is a laboratory analysis that determines the level of ferritin in the blood. Ferritin is a protein that serves as the main iron storage in the body, accumulating and storing it in a safe form. This test allows assessment of iron reserves and detection of iron deficiency or excess.
Iron is necessary for the synthesis of hemoglobin — the protein that carries oxygen in the blood — as well as for many other processes including muscle function, bone marrow activity, and the immune system. Ferritin reflects the total iron store in the body, whereas blood iron levels can fluctuate and do not always accurately indicate deficiency.
Indications for ferritin testing:
- Suspected iron deficiency anemia — a condition where the body lacks sufficient iron.
- Diagnosis of hemochromatosis — a disease associated with excessive iron accumulation.
- Assessment in liver diseases, since ferritin is stored in the liver.
- Monitoring of chronic diseases, including oncological, autoimmune, and kidney pathologies.
- Diagnosis of restless legs syndrome and Still’s disease, in which ferritin levels may be altered.
Test features:
- Ferritin is also an acute phase protein and can be elevated in inflammation and infections, requiring comprehensive interpretation of results.
- Preparation rules: blood is usually taken on an empty stomach, avoiding fatty foods for 24 hours before the test.
- Normal ferritin values depend on sex and age, typically ranging from approximately 6 to 397 ng/mL.
The ferritin test is an important tool for diagnosing and monitoring diseases related to iron metabolism disorders and helps doctors select effective treatment.