Ferritin
A blood test that measures ferritin levels, which reflect the amount of iron stored in the body.
Last medically reviewed: April 10, 2026 | Reviewed by LabResult.MD Editorial Team
What is Ferritin?
Ferritin is a protein that stores iron inside cells and releases it when the body needs it. Iron is essential for making hemoglobin, the protein in red blood cells that carries oxygen throughout the body. Ferritin acts as a buffer against both iron deficiency and iron overload.
A ferritin blood test is the most sensitive early indicator of iron deficiency. Because ferritin stores deplete before hemoglobin levels drop, ferritin can detect iron problems before anemia develops. It is also useful for detecting iron overload conditions.
Why Is It Tested?
A healthcare provider may order a ferritin test to:
- Evaluate iron stores when iron deficiency or iron overload is suspected
- Help diagnose the cause of anemia (particularly iron-deficiency anemia)
- Monitor iron levels in people with chronic conditions (kidney disease, inflammatory disorders)
- Screen for hereditary hemochromatosis (a genetic condition causing iron overload)
- Monitor iron supplementation therapy
- Evaluate unexplained fatigue, weakness, or hair loss
Normal Reference Ranges
Reference ranges may vary by laboratory, testing method, age, and other factors. Always use the ranges provided on your lab report.
| Population | Normal Range (ng/mL) |
|---|---|
| Adult Men | 20 – 250 ng/mL |
| Adult Women (premenopausal) | 10 – 120 ng/mL |
| Adult Women (postmenopausal) | 12 – 150 ng/mL |
| Children | 7 – 140 ng/mL |
What Does a High Ferritin Level Mean?
High ferritin indicates excess iron stores or can be elevated due to inflammation. Possible causes include:
- Hemochromatosis (hereditary iron overload)
- Chronic inflammatory conditions (rheumatoid arthritis, lupus)
- Liver disease (hepatitis, cirrhosis, fatty liver)
- Chronic infections
- Certain cancers (lymphoma, leukemia)
- Frequent blood transfusions
- Excessive iron supplementation
- Hyperthyroidism
Because ferritin is also an acute-phase reactant (it rises with inflammation), a high result does not always mean iron overload. Additional tests may be needed to determine the cause.
What Does a Low Ferritin Level Mean?
Low ferritin is a reliable indicator that the body's iron stores are depleted. Common causes include:
- Iron-deficiency anemia (the most common nutritional deficiency worldwide)
- Inadequate dietary iron intake
- Chronic blood loss (heavy menstrual periods, gastrointestinal bleeding)
- Pregnancy (increased iron demand)
- Conditions that reduce iron absorption (celiac disease, gastric bypass surgery)
Symptoms of low iron stores include fatigue, weakness, pale skin, cold hands and feet, brittle nails, hair loss, and restless legs. Iron deficiency can progress to anemia if untreated.
Common Next Steps
Depending on the result, a healthcare provider may recommend:
- Complete iron studies (serum iron, TIBC, transferrin saturation) for a full picture
- CBC to check hemoglobin and red blood cell levels
- Iron supplementation for low ferritin levels
- Dietary changes to increase iron-rich foods (red meat, spinach, fortified cereals)
- Investigation for sources of blood loss if iron deficiency is confirmed
- Genetic testing for hemochromatosis if iron overload is suspected
- Liver function tests if elevated ferritin is associated with liver disease
Frequently Asked Questions
What is a normal ferritin level?
Normal ferritin ranges are typically 24–336 ng/mL for men and 11–307 ng/mL for women. Ferritin levels below 30 ng/mL are often associated with iron deficiency, even if they fall within the laboratory's reference range.
What is the difference between ferritin and iron?
Ferritin is a protein that stores iron inside cells, while serum iron measures the amount of iron circulating in the blood. Ferritin is considered the best single test for iron deficiency because it reflects total body iron stores.
Can ferritin be high even without iron overload?
Yes. Ferritin is also an acute phase reactant, meaning it rises in response to inflammation, infection, liver disease, and certain cancers. Elevated ferritin requires interpretation alongside other iron studies (serum iron, TIBC, transferrin saturation) and clinical context.
Related Tests and Biomarkers
Sources
- World Health Organization. Serum ferritin concentrations for the assessment of iron status (2020)
- MedlinePlus. Ferritin Test. U.S. National Library of Medicine
- American Society of Hematology. Iron-Deficiency Anemia
Disclaimer: This information is for educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice. Reference ranges vary by laboratory. Always discuss your results with a qualified healthcare provider.