View Related Pages
Ferritin
Principle
Ferritin functions as an intracellular site of iron storage. Clinically significant concentrations are found in serum, and the concentration of serum ferritin is directly related to total body iron stores. Serum ferritin concentrations are determined to evaluate iron stores in normal patients, patients with iron deficiency and iron overload, and to monitor the response to iron therapy. The clinical use of ferritin measurements has been extensively reviewed.
Specimen Requirements
Specimen
Serum (red-top tube with no additive or serum separator tube, SST).
Collection
Separate serum from clot as soon as possible to prevent hemolysis.
Processing
Separate serum from clot as soon as possible to prevent hemolysis.
Storage and Transport
Store/transport at 15–30°C for ≤8 hours; 2–8°C for ≤48 hours; freeze at ≤ –20°C if delayed. Avoid repeated freeze–thaw cycles.
Unacceptable Specimens
Hemolyzed or unseparated specimens.
Method
Enhanced Chemiluminescence.
Normal Range
- Normal Female: 11.0–306.8 ng/mL
- Normal Male: 23.9–336.2 ng/mL
Turnaround Time
One Week
References
- Alfrey CP. Serum Ferritin Assay. Clin Lab Sci. 1978;9:179–208.
- Valberg LS. Plasma Ferritin Concentrations: Their Clinical Significance and Relevance to Patient Care. Can Med Assoc J. 1980;122:1240–1248.
- Worwood M. Serum Ferritin. Clin Lab Sci. 1979;10:171–204.
- Cook JD. Clinical Evaluation of Iron Deficiency. Semin Hematol. 1982;19:6–18.
- Kirking MH. Treatment of Chronic Iron Overload. Clin Pharm. 10:775–783; 1991
- Worwood M. Ferritin. Blood Rev. 1990;4:259–269.