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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 assess your iron stores.

Quick summary

["This test helps check for iron deficiency or excess iron in your body."]

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

Key facts at a glance

LOINC
35990-1
Short code
MR Fet
Synonyms
MR Fet
Category
chemistry
Sample
serum
Container
Red-top tube (SST)
Units
N/A
Fasting
false
Population
adult
Sex
all
Age range
18–65 years
Method
mr
CPT
86430
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 recommend a ferritin test if you have symptoms like fatigue, pale skin, or unusual tiredness, which can be signs of low iron levels. It may also be used to monitor iron levels in people with certain conditions, such as anemia, chronic diseases, or those undergoing treatment for iron overload.

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 larger blood workup. Bring any medications you’re currently 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 sent to a lab for analysis.

What the Results Mean

Results help determine whether your iron stores are adequate, low, or high. Low ferritin levels may indicate iron deficiency, while high levels could suggest conditions like hemochromatosis or chronic inflammation.

Clinical interpretation

How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.

◆Associated findings1

Short name

Ferritin

Frequently asked questions

What causes low ferritin levels?
Low ferritin can result from dietary iron deficiency, chronic blood loss (such as heavy menstrual periods or gastrointestinal bleeding), poor absorption of iron, or certain medical conditions like celiac disease or inflammatory bowel disease.
What causes high ferritin levels?
High ferritin is often linked to iron overload disorders, such as hemochromatosis, or chronic conditions like liver disease, certain cancers, or long-term inflammation. Rarely, it may be seen in people with excessive iron intake or genetic factors.
Can ferritin levels change with diet?
Yes, diet plays a role. Foods rich in iron (like red meat, spinach, and fortified cereals) can influence levels, but ferritin is primarily a measure of stored iron, not recent dietary intake. Your provider may recommend dietary changes if iron deficiency is suspected.
  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