Ferritin
Inc: Hemochromatosis, thalassemiaDec: Iron deficiency anemia
Ferritin is a protein that stores iron inside our cells. It is found in almost all living organisms, including humans, and its primary function is to regulate the iron levels inside our body. Ferritin acts as a storage protein by binding to and releasing iron in a slow and regulated manner, which allows our cells to maintain a constant supply of this essential mineral.
Ferritin is primarily produced in the liver, spleen, and bone marrow, although small amounts can also be found in other tissues. Its levels in the blood can be used to diagnose iron deficiency or excess conditions, as well as certain inflammatory or infectious diseases.
High levels of ferritin can indicate an iron overload condition called hemochromatosis, which can lead to liver and heart damage if left untreated, while low levels are a sign of iron deficiency anemia, which leads to fatigue, pallor, and other symptoms.
Ferritin levels can be measured through a simple blood test, and should always be interpreted in combination with other indicators of iron status, such as serum iron, transferrin, and transferrin saturation.
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