Ferritin: What It Means for Your Health
Ferritin is the primary iron storage protein in your body. A single ferritin molecule can store up to 4,500 iron atoms. Serum ferritin is the most sensitive and specific test for iron deficiency — it drops before hemoglobin does, making it an early marker. However, ferritin is also an acute-phase reactant, meaning it rises during inflammation, infection, and liver disease regardless of iron status.
Reference Range
Reference ranges may vary between laboratories, age groups, and sexes. The values shown are general adult reference ranges. Always compare your results to the specific range provided by your testing laboratory.
What Is Ferritin?
Ferritin is the primary iron storage protein in your body. A single ferritin molecule can store up to 4,500 iron atoms. Serum ferritin is the most sensitive and specific test for iron deficiency — it drops before hemoglobin does, making it an early marker. However, ferritin is also an acute-phase reactant, meaning it rises during inflammation, infection, and liver disease regardless of iron status.
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What Does High Ferritin Mean?
Elevated ferritin can indicate iron overload (hemochromatosis), chronic inflammation, infection, liver disease (hepatitis, cirrhosis), excessive alcohol consumption, hyperthyroidism, or certain cancers. Very high ferritin (>1000 ng/mL) warrants urgent evaluation for hemochromatosis or malignancy.
What Does Low Ferritin Mean?
Low ferritin is the earliest and most specific marker of iron deficiency. Even before anemia develops, ferritin drops below normal. Causes include inadequate dietary iron intake, poor absorption (celiac disease), chronic blood loss (heavy periods, GI bleeding), and increased demand (pregnancy, growth spurts). Symptoms include fatigue, hair loss, restless legs, and cold intolerance.
Related Biomarkers in Iron Studies
Track Your Ferritin Over Time
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This information is for educational purposes only and is not intended as medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Reference ranges may vary between laboratories. Always consult a qualified healthcare professional for interpretation of your blood test results and before making any health decisions.