Biochemistry · Iron Status
Serum Ferritin
The most sensitive marker of iron stores in the body. Detects iron deficiency before anaemia develops — and identifies iron overload conditions.
Ferritin vs Haemoglobin — Why Ferritin Is the Better Test
Ferritin is an intracellular protein that acts as the body's iron vault — storing iron safely in the liver, spleen, and bone marrow until it is needed. Serum ferritin is a window into those stores: even a tiny drop in ferritin signals that reserves are running low, long before haemoglobin falls and anaemia becomes visible on a routine CBC.
This is what makes ferritin the gold standard for detecting iron deficiency in its early, correctable stage. Many patients with fatigue and hair loss have perfectly normal haemoglobin but critically low ferritin — a diagnosis that is completely missed without this test. Conversely, very high ferritin can point to iron overload (haemochromatosis), liver disease, or severe inflammation.
Reference Ranges
| Category | Normal Range (ng/mL) | Note |
|---|---|---|
| Adult Men | 24–336 ng/mL | Higher stores than women |
| Adult Women | 11–307 ng/mL | Lower due to menstruation |
| Iron Deficiency | < 12 ng/mL | Strongly suggests depleted stores |
| Borderline Low | 12–30 ng/mL | Suboptimal stores — monitor |
| Iron Overload | > 500 ng/mL | Investigate haemochromatosis / liver disease |
When Is This Test Advised?
Preparation
No fasting required. However, ferritin is an acute-phase reactant — it rises during infections, inflammation, or liver disease, which can mask true iron deficiency. If you have an active infection or illness, mention it to your doctor as it may affect interpretation.
Test Price at Velys Hospital
₹150
Inclusive of collection · Same-day report
Book Serum Ferritin at Velys Hospital
No fasting needed · Walk-in available · Same-day results · Ahmedabad