Ferritin

FERRITIN (Serum)

Ferritin is the iron storage protein that correlates well with the levels of stored iron. The level of ferritin typically decreases if there is iron deficiency. A low level of ferritin that nevertheless falls within the reference range (under 40) commonly indicates iron deficiency associated with anemia. A ferritin level that falls below the reference range indicates a severe iron deficiency. A normal or elevated level of ferritin does not necessarily rule out iron deficiency in individuals with inflammation.

Elevated ferritin values usually occur in connection with inflammation, infection, chronic alcohol use or certain other medical situations. High ferritin levels are also found in association with dysmetabolic iron overload syndrome (DIOS) which is most commonly found in association with metabolic syndrome, diabetes and insulin resistance.

Reference ranges (ranges may vary in different countries):

• Men: 30–400 μg/l
• Women: 13–150 μg/l
• Optimal men: 80–200 μg/l
• Optimal women: 74–115 μg/l

Ferritin in the optimal range is associated with the lowest risk of all-cause mortality.