Ferritin
Use
Diagnose hypochromic, microcytic anemias. Decreased in iron deficiency anemia and increased in iron overload. Ferritin levels correlate with and are useful in evaluation of total body storage iron. In hemochromatosis, both ferritin and iron saturation are increased. Ferritin levels in hemochromatosis may be >1000 ng/mL.
Special Instructions
Values obtained with different assay methods should not be used interchangeably in serial testing. It is recommended that only one assay method be used consistently to monitor each patient's course of therapy. This procedure does not provide serial monitoring; it is intended for one-time use only. If serial monitoring is required, please order the serial monitoring test 480111. This test may exhibit interference when sample is collected from a person who is consuming a supplement with a high dose of biotin.
Limitations
Ferritin is an acute-phase reactant and thus may be increased in people with inflammation, liver disease, chronic infection, autoimmune disorders, and some types of cancer. Ferritin measurement is of limited usefulness during pregnancy because it diminishes late in pregnancy, even when bone marrow iron is present. Erroneous findings may be obtained from samples taken from patients who have been treated with monoclonal mouse antibodies. In rare cases, interference due to extremely high titers of antibodies to streptavidin and ruthenium can occur.
Methodology
Immunoassay (ECLIA)
Biomarkers
LOINC Codes
- 2276-4
- 2276-4
Result Turnaround Time
1 day
Related Documents
For more information, please review the documents below
Specimen
Serum
Volume
1 mL
Minimum Volume
0.7 mL
Container
Red-top tube, gel-barrier tube or green-top (lithium heparin) tube. Do not use oxalate, EDTA or citrate plasma.
Collection Instructions
If a red-top tube or plasma is used, transfer separated serum or plasma to a plastic transport tube.
Patient Preparation
Patients should be cautioned to stop biotin consumption at least 72 hours prior to the collection of a sample.
Storage Instructions
Room temperature
Causes for Rejection
Citrate plasma specimen; improper labeling
Stability Requirements
| Temperature | Period |
|---|---|
| Room Temperature | 14 days |
| Refrigerated | 14 days |
| Frozen | 14 days |