Peer Reviewed
Gastroenterology clinic

Elevated serum ferritin: identifying iron overload

Fei Wen Chen, Amany Zekry
Abstract
It is important to determine whether elevated ferritin levels are associated with iron overload conditions, such as hereditary haemochromatosis, or other causes, such as liver or inflammation-related conditions.
Key Points
    Remember
    • Ferritin, an iron storage protein, is critical to iron haemostasis. Its serum concentration closely reflects the body iron stores in the absence of inflammation.
    • Alterations in ferritin level are seen commonly in clinical practice, often reflecting perturbations in iron homeostasis or metabolism.

    Picture credit: © Mikeledray/Shutterstock

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