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Serum or Plasma Ferritin (Mass Concentration)

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

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

Quick summary

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

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

Key facts at a glance

LOINC
102592-3
Short code
Sheep Sorrel IgE RAST
Synonyms
Sheep Sorrel IgE RAST
Category
chemistry
Sample
serum
Container
Red-top tube (SST)
Units
N/A
Ref low
10
Ref high
40
Critical range
— – 500 N/A
Fasting
false
Population
adult
Sex
all
Age range
18–65 years
Method
rast
CPT
84484
SNOMED
302774002
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 This Test Done?

Your healthcare provider may order a ferritin test to check for conditions like anemia (low red blood cells), excessive iron in the body, or to monitor treatment for iron-related disorders. It can also be used in research or specialized diagnostic scenarios.

What Does a Low Ferritin Level Mean?

Low ferritin levels often suggest iron deficiency, which can lead to fatigue, weakness, or other symptoms. It may also be used to evaluate iron absorption or storage issues.

What Does a High Ferritin Level Mean?

High ferritin levels may indicate iron overload, which can cause organ damage or other health problems. This can occur from excessive iron intake or certain genetic conditions.

How Is This Test Performed?

A blood sample is drawn from a vein, usually in your arm. The sample is then sent to a lab for analysis using a specialized method to measure ferritin concentration.

Reference range

Adult: 10-40 U/LN/A

Specimen: serum

No special preparation required. Avoid fatty meals before the test if possible.

Clinical interpretation

How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.

Clinical Significance: Ferritin is a key biomarker for iron metabolism. It reflects total body iron stores and is useful in diagnosing iron deficiency anemia, hemochromatosis (iron overload), or other iron-related disorders. Levels may also be checked in patients with chronic diseases or those undergoing certain treatments.

Short name

Ferritin

Frequently asked questions

What causes low ferritin levels?
Low ferritin levels are often due to iron deficiency, which can result from poor diet, blood loss (e.g., from heavy periods, ulcers, or bleeding disorders), or increased iron needs (e.g., during pregnancy or rapid growth). Certain medical conditions, like celiac disease or inflammatory bowel disease, may also contribute.
What causes high ferritin levels?
High ferritin levels can stem from iron overload, which may occur from repeated blood transfusions, excessive iron supplements, or genetic disorders like hemochromatosis. Chronic liver disease, certain cancers, or long-term inflammation can also raise ferritin levels.
How long does it take to get results?
Results for ferritin tests are typically available within 1 to 3 business days, depending on your lab’s processing schedule. Your healthcare provider will discuss the results with you during your follow-up visit.
  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