What is it?

Ferritin is a blood protein that stores iron. This biomarker measurement will tell you how much iron reserves your body has. Having a higher that normal or lower than normal storage levels of iron can be signs of various conditions that should be investigated. Please note, that this is different to iron. Iron is a mineral in your red blood cells and ferritin is a protein that stores iron and releases it when the body needs it.

Reference ranges

If your indicative ferritin level is lower than the reference range for our laboratory:

Low levels of iron stored in the body usually imply an iron deficiency anaemia. It is usually caused by loss of blood and is also seen in pregnancy. It can be treated with iron supplements or iron-rich foods.

Symptoms can include lack of energy, chest pain, fast heartbeat or palpitations (as well as shortness of breath) and pale skin.

You should discuss this result with your GP.

If your indicative ferritin level is higher than the reference range for our laboratory:

It may imply that your body stores too much iron. It could also point to liver disease, rheumatoid arthritis, other inflammatory conditions, such as kidneys, or hyperthyroidism.

You should discuss this result with your GP.