Description
Ferritin is an iron-containing protein. This test can determine your body’s total iron storage capacity.
In the early stages of iron-deficiency, blood levels of iron can be normal while stored iron (ferritin levels) will begin to decrease. A ferritin level may also be ordered when iron overload is suspected.
In the early stage of iron deficiency, no physical effects are usually seen. If a person is otherwise healthy, symptoms seldom appear before the hemoglobin in the blood drops below a certain level (10 g per deciliter). However, as the iron-deficiency progresses, symptoms eventually begin to develop and a doctor may order ferritin as well as other iron-related tests. The most common symptoms of iron deficiency anemia include:
- Chronic fatigue/tiredness
- Weakness
- Dizziness
- Headaches
- Pale skin (pallor)
Requirements: Fasting required (Please consult your physician). To fast for blood work, do not eat anything for 8 to 12 hours before the test. It’s best to schedule fasting blood work for the morning, so that you don’t have to spend the whole day hungry. If fasting is not done before blood work, the results of the blood tests may be inaccurate.
CPT Code: 82728
Walk-in or call 303-552-0657 to schedule an appointment.
