Ferritin is a complex globular protein that stores iron in an inactive form. It is found in many body cells, especially in the liver, spleen, bone marrow, and reticuloendothelial cells. It plays a significant role in the absorption, storage, and release of iron. As your iron stores deplete, the ferritin releases its iron for use. If your ferritin depletes, you will run out of iron and your ability to produce red blood cells in your bone marrow decreases.

Our Ferritin Blood Test measures the amount of ferritin in your blood. Because ferritin stores iron, it estimates your body's iron levels and helps detect iron deficiency.

If ferritin levels are low, additional tests, including an iron test, TIBC and transferrin test, are used to confirm a diagnosis of iron deficiency anaemia. Low ferritin levels indicate iron deficiency. Symptoms of iron deficiency include pale skin, fatigue, dizziness, and heart palpitations. High ferritin levels could indicate haemochromatosis (iron overload syndrome), an inherited condition where your body cannot rid itself of iron, so it accumulates over time. High ferritin levels are also associated with liver inflammation.

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