Skip to content

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 in serum or plasma.

Quick summary

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

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

Key facts at a glance

LOINC
102864-6
Short code
West wheatgrass IgE RAST
Synonyms
West wheatgrass 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 iron deficiency anemia, chronic diseases like inflammation or liver disease, or conditions where iron buildup (hemochromatosis) might occur.

What to Expect Before the Test

No special preparation is needed. You may have a small needle inserted into a vein in your arm, and a small amount of blood will be drawn. If you’re concerned about needles, let your provider know.

What the Results Mean

Results help determine if your iron levels are too low or too high. While reference ranges vary by lab, lower levels may suggest anemia or poor iron absorption, while higher levels may indicate conditions like hemochromatosis or chronic inflammation.

Common Conditions Linked to Ferritin Levels

Low ferritin levels are often linked to iron deficiency anemia, malnutrition, or conditions causing chronic blood loss (e.g., heavy menstrual periods). Elevated levels may signal chronic infections, liver disease, or genetic disorders like hemochromatosis.

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.

Ferritin plays a key role in diagnosing iron-related disorders by providing insight into total body iron storage, which can guide treatment decisions such as iron supplements or dietary changes.

Short name

Ferritin

Frequently asked questions

What triggers a ferritin test?
A ferritin test may be ordered if you have symptoms like fatigue, weakness, pale skin, or unexplained weight loss, especially if other tests (like hemoglobin) suggest iron deficiency. It’s also used in patients with chronic illnesses (e.g., liver disease, inflammatory conditions) or those with a family history of hemochromatosis.
How often should I get a ferritin test?
The frequency depends on your health status. If you have iron deficiency or a known condition affecting iron levels, your provider may recommend regular monitoring. For healthy individuals, it’s usually not routine unless symptoms arise or risk factors are present.
Can diet affect ferritin test results?
Yes, diet can influence iron levels. High intake of iron-rich foods (e.g., red meat, spinach) or supplements may temporarily raise ferritin levels. Avoiding iron supplements for a few days before testing can help ensure accurate results.
  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