Ferr is a universal intracellular protein that stores iron and releases it in a controlled fashion. The protein is produced by almost all living organisms, including algae, bacteria, higher plants, and animals. In humans, it acts as a buffer against iron deficiency and iron overload. Ferritin is found in most tissues as a cytosolic protein, but small amounts are secreted into the serum functioning as an iron carrier. Plasma ferritin is also an indirect marker of the total amount of iron stored in the body. Hence serum ferritin is used as a diagnostic test for iron-deficiency anemia.

Clinical Significance

Low levels of iron can cause heart failure (when your heart doesn’t pump blood to your body as well as it should). It can also cause these symptoms:
1. Chest pain
2. Leg pain
3. Ringing in the ears, or tinnitus

A ferritin blood test can also help your doctor figure out whether your body is storing too much iron. High levels may point to alcohol abuse, infection, liver disease, rheumatoid arthritis, overactive thyroid, or some types of cancer.
Symptoms of high iron levels vary and can include:
1. Exhaustion
2. Heart problems
3. Joint pain
4. Low sex drive
5. Loss of body hair
6. Stomach pain
7. Weight loss
8. Abdominal pain
9. Lack of energy

Intent Use

Knowing whether you have too much ferritin in your blood or not enough can give your doctor clues about your overall iron levels. The more ferritin in your blood, the more stored iron your body has.