Ferritin reflects the amount of iron stored in your body, which makes it the single most useful test for suspected iron deficiency. Low ferritin is common in people with heavy periods, restricted diets, or gut conditions, and is a frequent cause of tiredness and hair loss. The test costs £68.75 plus the £50 phlebotomy fee, and results are usually available in 1 day.
No fasting is needed. Ferritin can be raised by infection, inflammation or liver problems even when iron is low, so a clinician will read it alongside a full blood count.
Ferritin is a protein that stores iron, so the blood level reflects how much iron your body has in reserve.
No. There is no fasting or special preparation.
Yes. Infection, inflammation and liver disease can push ferritin up, which can mask low iron. A full blood count and iron studies help clarify the picture.
Results are usually available in 1 day by email.