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Ferritin, Serum

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

This test measures the amount of ferritin, a protein in your blood that stores iron. It helps assess your body’s iron reserves and can indicate conditions related to iron overload or deficiency.

Quick summary

["Ferritin helps detect iron storage issues, which can affect energy levels and other health conditions."]

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

Key facts at a glance

LOINC
21696-0
Short code
HFE p.H63D Bld/T Ql
Synonyms
HFE p.H63D Bld/T Ql
Category
chemistry
Sample
whole-blood
Container
Lavender-top (EDTA)
Units
N/A
Fasting
false
Population
adult
Sex
all
Age range
18–65 years
Method
molgen
Specimen volume
3 mL
Stability
Room temperature: 4h, Refrigerated: 24h
Hemolysis max
0
Lipemia max
0
Icterus max
0
TAT
4–24 hours
Order
routine

Why Is This Test Done?

Your healthcare provider may order a serum ferritin test to check for conditions like anemia (due to low iron), iron overload (such as hemochromatosis), or inflammation. It’s often used alongside other tests to diagnose or monitor these issues.

What to Expect Before the Test

No special preparation is usually needed, but you may be asked to fast for 12 hours before the blood draw if your test is part of a broader iron study. Bring any medications you’re taking to your appointment.

What Happens During the Test?

A healthcare professional will draw blood from a vein in your arm. You may feel a slight pinch, but the procedure is quick and typically painless. The blood sample is then sent to a lab for analysis.

What Are Possible Results?

Results are interpreted based on your overall health, symptoms, and other tests. Low ferritin levels may suggest iron deficiency, while high levels could indicate iron overload or other conditions like inflammation or liver disease.

Clinical interpretation

How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.

◆Associated findings1

Short name

Serum Ferritin

Frequently asked questions

What does a ferritin test tell your doctor?
A ferritin test helps identify whether your body has enough stored iron. Low levels may point to anemia or poor absorption of iron, while high levels can signal conditions like hemochromatosis (iron overload) or chronic inflammation. It’s also used to monitor treatment for these conditions.
How does ferritin relate to anemia?
Ferritin is a key marker for iron deficiency anemia. Low ferritin levels often mean your body lacks enough iron to produce healthy red blood cells, leading to fatigue, weakness, or pale skin. Your doctor may recommend dietary changes, supplements, or further testing if levels are low.
Can ferritin levels change with diet?
Yes, diet can influence ferritin levels. Foods rich in iron (like lean meats, leafy greens, and fortified cereals) may help increase iron stores, while certain medications (e.g., antacids) or conditions (like celiac disease) can interfere with iron absorption. Always follow your doctor’s advice for dietary adjustments.
  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