Ferritin (Iron) Testing

Low ferritin is seen in long-term iron deficiency. Ferritin can also be reduced when the body’s protein levels are very low, as can happen in some cases of malnutrition. Low ferritin is often interpreted alongside other tests for iron deficiency anaemia (iron studies), including iron level, total iron binding capacity, transferrin level, and transferrin saturation.

When transferrin is low and the overall pattern of results points to iron deficiency, symptoms linked to iron deficiency can include fatigue, weakness, and tiredness. With further iron depletion, symptoms associated with anaemia can include shortness of breath and dizziness. In severe anaemia, chest pain, headaches, and leg pains can also occur.

When ferritin is low and other tests support iron deficiency, the underlying cause is commonly explored. This can include blood loss (such as heavy menstrual bleeding or blood loss in stool), malabsorption (iron not being absorbed due to bowel disease such as coeliac’s disease), or malnutrition (not enough iron in the diet).