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Catalog ID Ferritin Ferritin

CPOE Test Name

Ferritin

Synonyms

FTN

Specimen Type

Serum

Specimen Requirements

5 ml Gold top SST tube; 2 mL blood minimum

Storage and Transport

Samples may be stored for up to 24 hours at 2-8° C prior to being tested. If testing will be delayed more than 24 hours, serum or heparinized plasma should be separated from the clot or red blood cells and stored frozen. Samples may be stored frozen at -10° C or colder for 12 months with no effect on results. Multiple freeze/thaw cycles should be avoided.

Reference Values

Females 10 – 291 ng/mL; Males 22 – 322 ng/mL

Interpretation

Ferritin levels below 10 ng/mL have been reported as indicative of iron deficiency anemia. There are patients with iron deficiency anemia who have elevated or normal ferritin levels because of other causes, such as hepatocellular disease or iron therapy. Ferritin levels are increased in individuals with increased storage of iron. In chronic inflammatory disorders, infections, and chronic renal failure, there is a disproportionate increase in serum ferritin levels in relation to iron stores. Increased levels may also be found in the serum of some individuals with malignant diseases such as leukemia, Hodgkin disease, breast cancer, head and neck cancer, and ovarian cancer.

Causes for Rejection

Improper labeling; wrong specimen or tube; insufficient quantity

Turn Around Time

12 hours from time of testing

CPT / HCPCS Code

82728

Performing Lab

Core Laboratory AD 3301 721-2120