Ferritin test
The test involves drawing blood from a vein, which is then sent to the laboratory for analysis. The material tested is blood serum. Ferritin levels can be measured independently, but the test is often performed together with a complete blood count, serum iron level testing, and total iron-binding capacity (TIBC) to comprehensively assess the body’s iron status. It is a laboratory test used in the diagnosis of various conditions such as iron-deficiency anemia, hemochromatosis, or liver diseases.
Ferritin – key information
Ferritin is a tissue protein that stores iron. It is found in large amounts in the liver, bone marrow, spleen, heart, and kidneys. It is essential for producing hemoglobin and transporting oxygen throughout the body.
The ferritin level in the blood is an accurate indicator of the body’s iron stores. Low ferritin levels may indicate iron deficiency, while high levels may suggest iron overload. Ferritin is also an acute-phase protein, meaning its levels may increase in response to inflammation, autoimmune diseases, or cancer.
When should you perform a ferritin test?
Symptoms that may indicate the need for a ferritin test include:
- a feeling of chronic fatigue that does not go away after rest;
- pale skin, which may indicate iron deficiency;
- dizziness, weakness, drowsiness, and fainting;
- muscle and joint pain;
- brittle nails and hair;
- ringing in the ears;
- problems with concentration and memory.
Situations in which a ferritin test should also be performed:
- suspicion of anemia;
- monitoring treatment and iron supplementation;
- presence of intestinal diseases such as celiac disease (which may impair iron absorption);
- people in high-risk groups, such as athletes, pregnant women, vegetarians, and the elderly;
- in the diagnosis of liver diseases and hemochromatosis.
What does the test diagnose?
Low ferritin levels
Low ferritin may indicate anemia caused by iron deficiency. This condition may result from inadequate iron intake in the diet, malabsorption (e.g., celiac disease), significant blood loss (e.g., heavy menstruation, gastrointestinal bleeding), or thyroid diseases such as Hashimoto’s disease.
High ferritin levels
High ferritin levels in the blood may be caused by various factors, including excessive iron supplementation, inflammatory processes in the body, hemochromatosis (excessive iron absorption), liver diseases (such as cirrhosis, hepatitis, or fatty liver disease — in these cases ferritin may rise in response to liver cell damage), kidney disease, or pregnancy.
What does ferritin testing look like?
A ferritin test is performed by collecting a fasting venous blood sample. The procedure begins with disinfecting the skin, applying a tourniquet, and pressing at the puncture site. The blood draw itself takes about 30 seconds.
What increases ferritin levels?
To increase ferritin levels, you should primarily increase iron intake through your diet, for example by consuming more red meat, liver, poultry, eggs, whole-grain products, legumes, or tofu. Taking iron-containing dietary supplements also increases ferritin levels.
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