Ferritin Testing
Ferritin is a protein that stores iron within the cells, releasing it in a controlled manner as needed by the body. A blood test for ferritin is the most accurate way to measure a person's total iron stores, providing a much clearer picture of iron status than measuring iron levels in the blood alone.
Low ferritin levels are a definitive sign of iron deficiency, which can lead to fatigue, shortness of breath, and anemia if not addressed. Conversely, high ferritin levels may indicate iron overload—a condition called hemochromatosis—or a state of chronic inflammation, as ferritin also acts as an "acute-phase reactant."
When someone is sick or has a chronic condition like liver disease, cancer, or an autoimmune disorder, their ferritin levels can rise even if their iron stores are normal. This is because the body increases ferritin production as part of its immune response. Therefore, clinicians must interpret ferritin results…