Ferritin
Test ID: A885
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Introduction
Ferritin analyses provide a sensitive, specific, and reliable measurement for determining iron deficiency at an early stage, and are also useful for monitoring the reaccumulation of iron stores in iron-deficient individuals who are taking iron supplements. Ferritin analyses are also beneficial for determining iron overload and response to iron chelating agents.
Pricing
$49
What is Included?
Measurement of ferritin levels in a blood sample by chemiluminescent microparticle immunoassay.
Turnaround Time
1 – 3 business days
The turnaround time is not guaranteed. The average turnaround time is 1 – 3 business days from the date that the sample arrives at the laboratory. Shipping time for the sample is not included. Additional time is required if the case requires confirmatory or reflex testing, or if the sample is insufficient, or if a recollection is required.
Related Documents
Patient BrochureAdditional Information and Resources
SPECIMEN REQUIREMENTS
Preparation Before Specimen Collection
None
Specimen Type
Blood
Volume
50 μL in a microtainer
Container
Microtainer (regular blood tube)
Collection Method
This test requires a blood sample from a finger prick. All supplies for sample collection are provided in the kit.
- First wash and dry hands. Warm hands aid in blood collection.
- Clean the finger prick site with the alcohol swab and allow to air dry.
- Use the provided lancet to puncture the skin in one quick, continuous and deliberate stroke.
- Wipe away the first drop of blood.
- Massage hand and finger to increase blood flow to the puncture site. Angle arm and hand downwards to facilitate blood collection on the fingertip.
- Drip blood into the microtainer tube.
- Dispose of all sharps safely and return sample to the laboratory in the provided prepaid return shipping envelope.
NOTES: Avoid squeezing or ‘milking’ the finger excessively. If more blood is required and blood flow stops, perform a second skin puncture on another finger. Do not touch the fingertip.
Specimen Storage
Maintain specimen at temperatures between 2°C and 30°C during storage and transport.
Specimen Stability
Blood samples can be refrigerated or kept at room temperature for up to 7 days.
Causes for Rejection
- Incorrect or incomplete patient identification
- Incorrect specimen collection
- Inappropriate storage and transport conditions
- Incorrect specimen volume
TEST DETAILS
Purpose
To measure ferritin levels in a blood sample for the evaluation of iron status.
Ferritin analyses provide a sensitive, specific, and reliable measurement for determining iron deficiency at an early stage, and are also useful for monitoring the reaccumulation of iron stores in iron-deficient individuals who are taking iron supplements. Ferritin analyses are also beneficial for determining iron overload and response to iron chelating agents.
Limitations
- This report is not intended for use in medico-legal applications.
- These results should be interpreted in conjunction with other laboratory and clinical information.
- Correct specimen collection and handling is required for optimal assay performance.
- Interferences from medication or endogenous substances may affect results.
- Chronic inflammatory disorders, infections, and chronic renal failure may interfere with ferritin analyses.
- Values obtained with different assay methods should not be used interchangeably in serial testing.
- This assay is not recommended for use during pregnancy, as ferritin diminishes late in pregnancy even when adequate iron stores are present.
- False results may occur in specimens from individuals that have received preparations of mouse monoclonal antibodies for diagnosis or therapy.
Methodology
Chemiluminescent microparticle immunoassay (Alinity i Ferritin assay)
Reference Intervals
Male: 40 – 300 ng/mL
Female: 20 – 200 ng/mL
These reference ranges were obtained from Camaschella C. Iron-deficiency anemia. N Engl J Med. 2015 May 7;372(19):1832-43.