Iron is the principal atom in the heme group, responsible for binding molecular oxygen in the lungs and then carries it to all other body cells that use oxygen to function. Iron helps to produce the connective tissue in the body, as well as some of the neurotransmitters in the brain.
Also, iron is useful in keeping the immune system healthy. Iron is stored in a ubiquitous protein called Ferritin, which is manufactured by every living organism, including plants and animals. Ferritin consists of protein subunits numbering 24 and is the key protein for intracellular iron storage and keeping the metal complex in a soluble, non-toxic form. Ferritin also serves as the transport agent of iron in the body. Ferritin, unlike iron, is found inside cells, with a very minimal amount found within the blood.
It is possible to have elevated amounts of ferritin in the body while iron levels remain normal. This is usually a result of inflammation to organs that contain the protein, such as the spleen, liver and bone marrow. For the purpose of iron storage, ferritin has a spherical shape that is hollow, where iron is stored inside during oxidation state.
Tests Tests for serum ferritin and serum iron are carried out to determine the level of iron stores and blood iron levels in the body respectively. Summary Iron is a metal complex whereas ferritin is a protein.
Guidelines for the management of iron deficiency anaemia. A review of studies on the effect of iron deficiency on cognitive development in children. J Nutr. Prospective evaluation of a clinical guideline for the diagnosis and management of iron deficiency anemia. Am J Med. Iron deficiency--United States, Clinical utility of the soluble transferrin receptor and comparison with serum ferritin in several populations. Clin Chem. Rapid identification of iron deficiency in blood donors with red cell indexes provided by Advia Iron deficiency anemia: evaluation and management.
Am Fam Physician. Am J Hematol. During the ferritin test, a member of your health care team takes a sample of blood by inserting a needle into a vein in your arm. The blood sample is sent to a lab for analysis. You can return to your usual activities immediately. This indicates that you have iron deficiency. You might also be anemic. If your ferritin level is low, your doctor will work to determine the cause.
A higher than normal ferritin level can be seen in several conditions. However, diagnosis of these conditions might require additional testing based on your symptoms and physical examination. If your ferritin level is above normal, your doctor might need to evaluate the results with those of other tests to determine next steps. Mayo Clinic does not endorse companies or products. Advertising revenue supports our not-for-profit mission.
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