Ferritin is a type of protein that stores and releases iron according to the need of body. Ferritin blood test is mainly run to measure the exact amount of iron in the blood. This test is the most helpful way to detect any type of iron storage disorder or iron deficiency disorder. This test is generally recommended if an individual is having intestinal bleeding, heavy menstrual bleeding, blood in stool, shortness of breath or chest pain. No specific preparations are needed to go for this test. Inform your doctor positively if you are going through any type of medications. The test results may vary depending upon age, gender and health conditions. Go for a Ferritin test today to stay away from risks as a Ferritin test cost is not so high yet.
What is a Ferritin test?
Ferritin is mainly a kind of protein known for containing iron and is also considered as the primary form of iron that remains stored in the cells. A ferritin test is performed to measure the iron storage capacity of a person’s body. Diagnosing iron overload or iron deficiency is the major objective of performing this test. When your CBC test result shows that you are having low hemoglobin levels then the doctor may suggest you to go for this test. In other words, if any person is suspectively having too little iron in the body, then the person is recommended to go for this test.
What is the use of a Ferritin test?
- It helps to assess the iron storage of a person.
- It helps to determine the chances of iron deficiency anemia.
- It also helps to gain information about the total iron binding capacity of a person.
Why do you need a Ferritin test?
It is not really possible for any of us to stay up to date about the exact amount of iron in our body. Undoubtedly, there lies the major importance of this test. There are so many diseases and disorders that may take place because of the deficiency or overload of iron. A Ferritin test can help you and your loved ones stay away from many of these.
Test preparations and sample collection
A certain amount of blood will be taken from your vein by a medical expert and the test will be performed on that blood sample. Sometimes it is recommended to fast 12 hours before the test and only drinking water is permitted. Generally no other preparations are needed to appear for this test.
Result interpretation
Depletion of iron storage can be noticed if the patient is at the beginning stage of iron deficiency. However, generally the ferritin levels remain connected with the other iron tests. A clear consultation with pathological experts is always recommended to have a better understanding about the test report.