Overview
The ferritin test measures ferritin levels in the blood to assess the body's iron stores, as ferritin is the main protein that stores iron. Low ferritin levels may indicate iron deficiency, while elevated levels can suggest conditions like inflammation, liver disease, or iron overload disorders. This test aids in diagnosing anemia, evaluating iron status, and monitoring treatment responses.
What is the Ferritin Test ?
Hypoferritinemia is associated with increased risk for developing iron deficiency where iron deficiency is sufficient to reduce erythropoiesis causing Hemoglobin concentrations to fall. Latent iron deficiency occurs when serum ferritin is low without low Hemoglobin. Hyperferritinemia is associated with iron overload conditions including hereditary Hemochromatosis where concentrations may exceed 1000 mcg/L. Non-iron overload Hyperferritinemia may be caused by common Liver disorders, Neoplasms, Acute or chronic inflammation, and hereditary Hyperferritinemia-Cataract syndrome. Accurate diagnosis often requires further investigation to determine the underlying cause and appropriate management.
What is the Purpose of the Ferritin Test ?
This test is advised for following analysis:
- Diagnosing Iron Deficiency: Low Ferritin Saturation indicates insufficient iron stores in the body, which can help diagnose iron deficiency Anemia.
- Identifying Iron Overload: Elevated Ferritin Saturation levels can suggest iron overload disorders, such as Hemochromatosis, where the body absorbs and stores excessive iron.
- Monitoring Iron Therapy: It helps track the effectiveness of iron supplementation or treatments for conditions like Anemia.
- Assessing Iron Metabolism: The test provides a clearer picture of how efficiently the body is using available iron, guiding decisions on further testing or treatment.
When is an Ferritin Test Recommended ?
If you have following symptoms or conditions, then Ferritin Test is advised:
- Chronic Fatigue/tiredness
- Dizziness
- Weakness
- Headaches
- Pale skin (pallor)
Preparation for Ferritin Test
There is no special preparation required before the Ferritin Test.
- Other blood tests can be carried out in addition to an Ferritin Test. If your doctor advises you to have multiple tests at once, they may ask you to fast for a specific period of time prior to a blood test.
- Drink adequate water before sample collection.
- Follow the preparatory instructions as guided by your doctor.
What is the Cost of a Ferritin Test ?
The Price of an Ferritin Test is Rs. 750. However, cost of the test may fluctuate depending on following factors:
- Other tests advised along with Ferritin Test
- Offers or discounts
- Empanelment of the patient
Components of Ferritin Test
- Ferritin: Iron, a mineral required for the synthesis of healthy red blood cells and the delivery of oxygen throughout the body, is stored in the protein called ferritin.
Interpreting the Ferritin Test Results
Normal ferritin levels can vary depending on age and gender, and laboratory reference ranges, but generally:
- Men: 20 to 500 ng/mL (nanograms per milliliter)
- Women: 20 to 200 ng/mL
- For children, normal levels may range from 7 to 140 ng/mL, depending on age.
| Disease |
Ferritin |
| Iron Deficiency |
Low |
| Hemocromatosis/Hemosiderosis |
High |
| Chronic Illness |
Low/Normal |
| Hemolytic Anemia |
High |
| Sideroblastic Anemia |
High |
| High |
High |
How is the Ferritin Test Done ?
The Blood Sample for Ferritin Test is taken in following steps:
- The area where the needle will be inserted to take your blood is cleaned with an antiseptic alcohol wipe. The hollow on the inside side of the elbow or the tip of the finger are the most common sites for this.
- A tourniquet or a band is tied around your upper arm to facilitate the access to the vein in your arm.
- A needle is used to puncture your vein. The blood sample is collected into a test tube attached to the needle. The needle may cause a small pinch or sting when it is inserted.
- Once the vial or test tube is filled, the blood sample collection for the test is finished and the needle is taken out.
- Finger pressure is applied on the puncture site to stop the bleeding and the band aid is applied at the site.
How to Schedule a Ferritin Test with Dr. B. Lal Lab ?
- Go to the Dr. B. Lal Lab website.
- Go to the “Book a test” tab.
- Select the “Lab Test” tab.
- Type “Ferritin Test” in the search bar.
- Click on the test.
- The test page with all the test details will show up.
- Click on “Book Now”.
- Login and verify your mobile number with OTP.
- Now enter your details.
- Select date & time for booking Ferritin Test in Jaipur.
- Check out.
+91 9166125555
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