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Serum Ferritin (Mass Concentration)

Published: August 9, 2026Updated: August 16, 2026

Ferritin is a protein that stores iron in your body. Your blood test measures the amount of ferritin in your serum to check how much iron your body has stored.

Quick summary

["This test helps assess iron levels and identify potential iron deficiency or iron overload."]

Medically reviewed by WellAlly Editorial TeamLast reviewed August 16, 2026Editorial policy

Key facts at a glance

LOINC
55450-1
Short code
Deprecated FSP Ser
Synonyms
Deprecated FSP Ser
Category
coagulation
Sample
serum
Container
Red-top tube (SST)
Units
N/A
Fasting
false
Population
adult
Sex
all
Age range
18–65 years
Specimen volume
5 mL
Stability
Room temperature: 4h, Refrigerated: 24h, Frozen: 7d
Hemolysis max
500
Lipemia max
1000
Icterus max
500
TAT
4–24 hours
Order
routine

Why This Test Might Be Ordered

Your healthcare provider may order a ferritin test if you have symptoms like fatigue, weakness, or pale skin, which can indicate low iron stores. It may also be used to monitor iron levels in people with conditions like anemia, chronic illnesses, or those receiving blood transfusions.

What to Expect Before the Test

No special preparation is usually needed, but you may be asked to fast for 8–12 hours before the test if it’s part of a more complex blood workup. Bring any medications you’re taking, as some may affect results.

What the Test Results Mean

Results can vary based on age, sex, and overall health. Low ferritin levels may suggest iron deficiency, while very high levels could indicate conditions like hemochromatosis or chronic inflammation.

Common Conditions Monitored

Ferritin is often checked in people with anemia, unexplained fatigue, or those with conditions like celiac disease, kidney disease, or liver disorders that affect iron absorption.

Clinical interpretation

How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.

◆Associated findings1

Short name

Ferritin

Frequently asked questions

What does a ferritin test tell your doctor?
A ferritin test helps determine if your body has enough stored iron. Low levels may mean you’re at risk for iron deficiency anemia, while elevated levels could signal excess iron storage, which may require further evaluation for conditions like hemochromatosis.
Can ferritin test results change over time?
Yes, ferritin levels can fluctuate due to diet, medications, infections, or underlying health conditions. Regular monitoring may be needed if you have a chronic illness or are undergoing treatment for iron-related disorders.
Does diet affect ferritin test results?
Yes, dietary iron intake (from foods like red meat, spinach, or fortified cereals) can temporarily influence ferritin levels. Avoiding high-iron foods for a few days before testing may help provide a more accurate baseline.
  1. 1
    MedlinePlus — Laboratory TestsSource
  2. 2
    Lab Tests OnlineSource
  3. 3
    Mayo Clinic — Tests & ProceduresSource

Click any link to access the full source. PubMed Central (PMC) links provide free full-text access.

This information is for educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment.

Medical Disclaimer

This content is for general informational and educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the guidance of a qualified healthcare provider with any questions you have about a medical condition, and never disregard professional medical advice or delay seeking it because of something you read here.

If you think you may have a medical emergency, call your local emergency number or go to the nearest emergency department immediately.

Medically reviewed by WellAlly Editorial Team Last reviewed August 16, 2026. · Read our editorial policy