Description
Ferritin is a ubiquitous and highly conserved iron-binding protein; 24 ferritin molecules assemble to form apoferritin, which can carry approximately 45000 iron atoms. Ferritin also has enzymatic properties, converting Fe++ to Fe+++ as iron is internalised and sequestered in the ferritin mineral core. Two types of ferritin have been identified; the H type, predominantly found in the heart and liver and the L type which is predominantly found in the kidneys and spleen. Small quantities of ferritin, believed to be of the L type, are present in human serum. Ferritin can be viewed not only as part of a group of iron regulatory proteins that include transferrin and the transferrin receptor, but also as a member of the protein family that orchestrates the cellular defence against stress and inflammation.
Indications
Ferritin is used as a clinical indicator of body iron stores. Ferritin levels are decreased in iron deficiency anaemia, anaemia of chronic disease, and liver disease and are elevated in conditions of iron overload, inflammation, and various malignancies.
Sample Type, Quantity & Conditions
1 ml Serum 1 ml Li, Na-Heparin or K3-EDTA Plasma Stability: 7 Days at 2-8 °C 12 Months at -20 °C
Special Precautions
Normal Range
Children (< 1 Year): 12-327 µg/L Children (1-3 Years): 6-67 µg/L Children (4-6 Years): 4-67 µg/L Female (7-12 Years): 7-84 µg/L Male (7-12 Years): 14-124 µg/L Female (13-17 Years): 13-68 µg/L Male (13-17 Years): 14-152 µg/L Female (17-60 Years): 15-150 µg/L Male (20-60 Years): 30-400 µg/L
