Ferritin (FER)

What is ferritin and what is it used for in the body?

Ferritin is a protein that is found in the body's cells and is used to store iron. The body needs iron to produce red blood cells and to transport oxygen throughout the body. Ferritin helps to regulate the amount of iron in the body, releasing iron when it is needed and storing it when it is not.

How is ferritin measured in the body?

Ferritin can be measured in the body through a blood test. A small sample of blood is collected from a vein in the arm and sent to a laboratory for analysis. Ferritin levels are typically measured in micrograms per liter (μg/L).

What is the normal range for ferritin levels in the body?

The normal range for ferritin levels in the body varies depending on age, gender, and other factors. In general, normal ferritin levels in adults are typically between 20 and 300 ng/mL for men and 20 and 120 ng/mL for women. However, normal ranges may vary depending on the specific laboratory that performs the test.

What can cause abnormal ferritin levels in the body?

Abnormal ferritin levels in the body can be caused by a variety of factors, including medical conditions such as iron deficiency anemia, hemochromatosis (an excess of iron in the body), and liver disease. In addition, certain medications and dietary factors can affect ferritin levels in the body.

How is ferritin related to the diagnosis and treatment of iron deficiency anemia?

Ferritin levels can be measured as part of the diagnostic process for iron deficiency anemia. Low ferritin levels in the blood are often indicative of iron deficiency anemia. Ferritin levels are typically used in conjunction with other tests, such as the complete blood count (CBC), to diagnose this condition. Treatment for iron deficiency anemia often involves increasing iron intake through diet or supplements, and ferritin levels are typically monitored to ensure that treatment is effective.

How is ferritin related to the diagnosis and treatment of hemochromatosis?

Ferritin levels can also be used in the diagnosis and management of hemochromatosis, a condition in which there is an excess of iron in the body. Elevated ferritin levels in the blood may be indicative of this condition. Treatment for hemochromatosis typically involves removing excess iron from the body through a procedure called phlebotomy, in which blood is regularly removed from the body. Ferritin levels are typically monitored to ensure that treatment is effective.

Are there any potential side effects associated with ferritin testing?

There are generally no known side effects associated with ferritin testing. The test is noninvasive and requires only a small sample of blood, which is usually collected through a simple blood draw from a vein in the arm.