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Ferritin (Serum)

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

Ferritin is a protein in your blood that stores iron. It helps measure how much iron your body has available for use, which can indicate iron levels in your blood.

Quick summary

["Ferritin helps assess iron stores and potential iron deficiency or overload."]

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

Key facts at a glance

LOINC
28384-6
Short code
FEAR
Synonyms
—
Category
chemistry
Sample
serum
Container
Red-top tube (SST)
Units
N/A
Fasting
false
Population
adult
Sex
all
Age range
18–65 years
Method
reported-hiv-ssc
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 Is Ferritin Tested?

Doctors may order a ferritin test to check for conditions like anemia (low red blood cell counts), iron deficiency, or excess iron storage (hemochromatosis). It can also be used to monitor treatment responses or screen for certain health risks, such as liver disease or inflammation.

What Does a Ferritin Test Tell You?

Low ferritin levels may suggest iron deficiency, which can cause fatigue, weakness, or pale skin. High ferritin levels might indicate overloaded iron storage, which can affect organs like the liver or heart over time.

How Is the Ferritin Test Performed?

A blood sample is taken from a vein in your arm. The sample is sent to a lab where it is analyzed to measure ferritin concentration. No special preparation is usually needed, but fasting may be advised in some cases.

What Are Common Results and Next Steps?

Results are compared to a general reference range, though individual ranges can vary. If levels are outside the expected range, your doctor may recommend further testing or adjustments to diet, supplements, or treatment plans.

Clinical interpretation

How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.

◆Associated findings1

Short name

Serum Ferritin

Frequently asked questions

What causes low ferritin levels?
Low ferritin can result from dietary iron deficiency, chronic blood loss (e.g., from heavy periods or gastrointestinal bleeding), pregnancy, or certain medical conditions like celiac disease or inflammatory bowel disease.
What causes high ferritin levels?
High ferritin levels may occur with hemochromatosis (genetic iron overload), chronic liver disease, certain cancers, or excessive iron supplements or transfusions.
Can ferritin levels change with diet?
Yes, diet can influence ferritin levels. Foods rich in iron (like lean meats, spinach, and fortified cereals) may affect results, so fasting before testing may be recommended to avoid dietary interference.
  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