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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. This blood test measures the amount of ferritin in your serum to help assess your iron stores.

Quick summary

["This test helps check if you have enough iron in your body or if you may be at risk for iron deficiency."]

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

Key facts at a glance

LOINC
37650-9
Short code
XR SIJ Ferguson
Synonyms
XR SIJ Ferguson
Category
chemistry
Sample
serum
Container
Red-top tube (SST)
Units
N/A
Fasting
false
Population
adult
Sex
all
Age range
18–65 years
Method
xr
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 doctor may order a ferritin test to evaluate potential iron deficiency, check for conditions like anemia, or monitor iron levels in people with certain health issues, such as chronic inflammation or liver disease.

What to Expect Before the Test

No special preparation is needed for this blood test. You may have it done at any time of day, but fasting is not required. Bring any medications or supplements you take to your appointment.

What the Test Results Mean

Results can vary based on your overall health and medical history. Low ferritin levels may indicate iron deficiency or storage disorders, while very high levels might suggest conditions like hemochromatosis or chronic inflammation.

Common Conditions Monitored

Ferritin levels are often checked in people with symptoms of anemia, unexplained fatigue, or those with conditions like celiac disease, inflammatory bowel disease, or liver disease.

Clinical interpretation

How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.

Clinical Significance: Ferritin is a key biomarker for iron status. Low ferritin suggests iron deficiency anemia or other iron storage disorders, while elevated levels may indicate chronic inflammation, liver disease, or genetic disorders like hemochromatosis. It is often used alongside other tests, such as hemoglobin or transferrin saturation, for a comprehensive assessment.

Short name

Ferritin

Frequently asked questions

What causes low ferritin levels?
Low ferritin levels can result from chronic blood loss (such as heavy menstrual periods or gastrointestinal bleeding), poor diet lacking iron, certain medications, or conditions like celiac disease or inflammatory bowel disease.
What causes high ferritin levels?
High ferritin levels may be due to chronic inflammation, liver disease (such as hepatitis or cirrhosis), hemochromatosis (a genetic disorder causing iron overload), or excessive iron intake.
Do I need to take any special steps if my ferritin test is abnormal?
If your ferritin test shows an abnormality, your doctor may recommend further testing or adjustments to your diet, medications, or treatment plan. Follow their guidance closely to address the underlying cause.
  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