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Serum or plasma concentration of ferritin (mass concentration)

Published: August 9, 2026Updated: August 17, 2026

This blood test measures the amount of ferritin, a protein that stores iron in your body.

Quick summary

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

Medically reviewed by WellAlly Editorial TeamLast reviewed August 17, 2026Editorial policy

Key facts at a glance

LOINC
4667-2
Short code
OF NFr RBC
Synonyms
OF NFr RBC
Category
chemistry
Sample
serum
Container
Red-top tube (SST)
Units
N/A
Ref low
4.2
Ref high
5.9
Critical range
2 N/A – 7 N/A
Fasting
false
Population
adult
Sex
all
Age range
18–65 years
CPT
85041
SNOMED
900000000000003001
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

What Is Ferritin Used For?

Ferritin is primarily used to evaluate your body’s iron reserves. Low levels may indicate iron deficiency anemia or chronic blood loss, while elevated levels can signal conditions like hemochromatosis or inflammation.

Why Might Your Doctor Order This Test?

Your doctor may request ferritin testing if you have symptoms like fatigue, pale skin, shortness of breath, or unexplained weight loss. It’s also used in patients with known iron-related disorders or those undergoing treatments that affect iron levels.

How Is the Test Performed?

A blood sample is drawn from a vein, typically in your arm. The sample is sent to a lab where ferritin levels are measured using a specialized immunoassay or nephelometry method.

What Do Results Mean?

Results are compared to reference ranges specific to your age, sex, and overall health. While exact values vary, very low levels often suggest iron deficiency, while very high levels may point to iron overload or other conditions.

Reference range

Adult males: 4.2-5.9; Females: 3.8-5.1 x 10^12/LN/A

Specimen: serum

No special preparation required. Stay well hydrated.

Clinical interpretation

How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.

Clinical Significance: Ferritin plays a critical role in diagnosing and monitoring iron-related disorders. It helps identify hidden iron deficiency in patients who may not have classic symptoms, such as those with chronic illnesses or those undergoing certain treatments.

Short name

Ferritin

Frequently asked questions

What causes ferritin levels to be low?
Low ferritin levels can result from chronic blood loss (e.g., heavy menstrual periods, gastrointestinal bleeding), poor diet lacking iron, certain medical conditions like celiac disease or inflammatory bowel disease, or medications that interfere with iron absorption.
What causes ferritin levels to be high?
Elevated ferritin may indicate iron overload (e.g., hemochromatosis), chronic inflammation (such as rheumatoid arthritis), liver disease, or certain cancers. It can also be influenced by factors like excessive alcohol consumption or certain medications.
How often should ferritin be checked?
The frequency of ferritin testing depends on your health status. If you have a known iron disorder, your doctor may recommend regular monitoring. Otherwise, it’s usually checked only when symptoms or risk factors suggest it’s needed.
  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 17, 2026. · Read our editorial policy