Ferritin (FER)

Service Description

Biomarker: FER Sample: BLOOD Results: 2 HRS Phlebotomy fee: £10 FER test measures the level of ferritin in the blood. Ferritin is a protein that stores iron in the body, and the level of ferritin in the blood is an indicator of the amount of iron stored in the body. There are several disorders and conditions associated with abnormal ferritin levels in the body. Some of these include: -- Iron deficiency anaemia: Low ferritin levels are often an indication of depleted iron stores and can be a marker of iron deficiency anaemia. -- Hemochromatosis: This is an inherited disorder characterised by excessive iron absorption and accumulation in the body, leading to increased ferritin levels. -- Inflammation or infection: Inflammatory conditions and infections can cause elevated ferritin levels as part of the immune response. -- Liver diseases: Conditions such as alcoholic liver disease, non-alcoholic fatty liver disease, or hepatitis can lead to abnormal ferritin levels. -- Certain cancers: Some cancers, such as lymphoma or leukaemia, can cause elevated ferritin levels due to increased iron storage. -- Chronic kidney disease: Kidney dysfunction can affect iron metabolism and lead to abnormal ferritin levels.