BI083 - FERRITIN, SERUM Detail

Ferritin is a protein that serves as the primary intracellular storage form of iron and reflects the total iron reserves of the body. The serum ferritin test measures the concentration of ferritin in blood and is widely used as a reliable indicator of iron status. It is commonly performed using immunoassay techniques such as chemiluminescence or enzyme-linked methods. Ferritin estimation is particularly useful in the evaluation and differentiation of iron deficiency anemia from other types of anemia and in monitoring iron therapy. Reduced ferritin levels indicate depleted iron stores, while increased levels may be seen in conditions such as iron overload, chronic inflammation, liver disease, infections, and malignancy, as ferritin also acts as an acute-phase reactant. Interpretation of ferritin results is often done in conjunction with other iron studies and clinical findings to provide an accurate assessment of iron metabolism.