Ferritin
The body's iron storage protein — also rises during inflammation.
What is it
Ferritin is the primary iron storage protein in the body. It serves as a marker of iron stores but is also an acute-phase reactant that rises during inflammation.
Why it's measured
Ferritin must be interpreted in context: it can be elevated either from iron overload or from active inflammation in published research.
Reference range
Standard laboratory reference
Men: 30 – 400 / Women: 13 – 150 ng/mL
Reference ranges vary by laboratory. Your individual reference range will appear on your test report and should be interpreted by your physician in the context of your overall health profile.
What results may indicate
Elevated
May reflect iron overload, inflammation, or liver disease — clinical context required.
Lower
Has been associated with iron deficiency in published research.
These associations are general. They are not a personal diagnosis or prediction. Discuss your individual results with your physician in the context of your full health profile.
When it's measured
Used in evaluating iron status and certain inflammatory conditions.
Related markers
Common questions
Ferritin is the primary iron storage protein in the body. It serves as a marker of iron stores but is also an acute-phase reactant that rises during inflammation.
It's one of the markers used to build a fuller picture of your health. On its own it tells you very little, so it's most informative when reviewed alongside related markers.
It's measured from a standard blood draw at Quest or LabCorp. Ferritin (acute-phase context) is one of the markers included in the OPTML Apex Panel, where your results are read across systems and reviewed by a U.S.-licensed physician.
Reference ranges vary by laboratory, and a single value rarely tells the whole story. Review your result with a physician in the context of your other markers, symptoms, and history.
Ferritin (acute-phase context) is one signal among many. Answer a few quick questions and we’ll point you to the panel that fits.
Measured in
A complete look at your heart, hormones, metabolism, inflammation, and longevity systems — drawn at Quest or LabCorp, reviewed by a U.S.-licensed physician.
Explore the Apex Panel →This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical advice. Lab results alone are not intended to diagnose, treat, or cure any condition and do not replace the advice of a healthcare provider. OPTML does not offer medical advice, a diagnosis, medical treatment, or any form of medical opinion.