Ferritin, Serum
Ferritin is a protein stored inside blood cells that also helps physicians measure iron levels in the blood. Ferritin tests work best when performed alongside iron tests and TIBC (total iron binding capacity) tests. The combination of tests helps to detect the presences of an iron overload or deficiency and evaluates the severity of the condition. Doctors usually order a ferritin serum test when a standard complete blood count, or CBC, test shows small, pale red blood cells or low hemoglobin levels.
Patients who regularly suffer from dizziness, headaches, physical weakness or chronic tiredness may also need a ferritin test to identify anemia. In the early stages of this condition, it's possible to have a low ferritin level in the bloodstream without a decrease in iron levels. Patients who suffer from iron overload may suffer from similar symptoms, but they are usually accompanied by abdominal and joint pain or heart problems.
People who have inflammatory diseases, autoimmune problems, chronic infections or liver disease may show elevated levels of ferritin without having an iron imbalance. This occurs because these infections damage internal organs, which then release the protein into the blood. Too little ferretin can be corrected by adding iron supplements to the diet or increasing consumption of iron-rich foods such as red meat or spinach.
To obtain an accurate sample, patients should FAST for 10 hours before their blood is drawn, drinking only water.
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