Ferritin Test
A blood test that measures ferritin, a protein that binds to iron and stores it in your body.
Ferritin Test
A blood test that measures ferritin, a protein that binds to iron and stores it in your body.
Also known as
- Serum ferritin
What it measures
- Ferritin level (a marker of how much iron is stored)
Why a doctor may order it
Doctors may use it, often as part of a group of iron tests, to check whether your body is storing the right amount of iron. It may be asked for if you have symptoms that can go with low iron (tiredness, weakness, dizziness, shortness of breath, pale skin) or too much iron (fatigue, joint pain, belly pain), or when other blood tests suggest an iron problem.
What it helps evaluate
It can help a doctor look into iron deficiency, iron overload and some liver conditions, and check how iron treatment is working. Because ferritin is linked to other conditions too, results need a doctor’s interpretation.
Preparation
Your provider may ask you to fast for 12 hours before the test, and it is usually done in the morning.
Fasting
Your provider may ask you to fast for 12 hours. Follow the instructions you are given.
Important considerations
- Too little or too much iron can both cause problems, so do not start or stop iron supplements because of a result without medical advice.
- Ferritin is often tested together with other iron tests.
Discuss results with your doctor
Talk to a doctor about your symptoms and about what your results mean — a single result is not a diagnosis. See a doctor promptly for severe or worsening symptoms.