Ferritin

Iron Storage (Ferritin)

What To Think About

• A ferritin test is often done with other tests to check the amount of iron in the blood, especially the iron and iron-binding capacity levels. For more information, see the medical test Iron (Fe).
• A bone marrow biopsy can check the amount of iron stored in the bone marrow. For more information, see the medical test Bone Marrow Aspiration and Biopsy.
• Because inflammation in the body can cause high ferritin levels, a test result that is slightly high does not always mean a buildup of iron (hemochromatosis) is present.

Go to previous section	Go to top of page	Go to next section
Author:	Caroline Rea, RN, BS, MS	Last Updated: September 12, 2008
Medical Review:	Anne C. Poinier, MD - Internal Medicine Joseph O'Donnell, MD - Hematology/Oncology
© 1995-2009 Healthwise, Incorporated. Healthwise, Healthwise for every health decision, and the Healthwise logo are trademarks of Healthwise, Incorporated.This information does not replace the advice of a doctor. Healthwise disclaims any warranty or liability for your use of this information. Your use of this information means that you agree to the Terms of Use. How this information was developed to help you make better health decisions.