Ferritin – what do your numbers mean?
Have you had your Ferritin level measured and are unsure what the numbers mean? Here's a clear explanation of the normal range, what a high or low level can indicate, and when it makes sense to get tested.
What is the normal range for Ferritin?
What is the normal range for Ferritin?
The normal range for ferritin varies depending on age, gender, and laboratory method. For adult men, it typically ranges between 22-355 µg/L, while women under 50 have a range of 15-120 µg/L, and women over 50 have a range of 15-290 µg/L. For pregnant women, values can drop to 5-45 µg/L, which is normal during pregnancy. In children under 4 months, the range is 10-400 µg/L, and for children between 4 months and 5 years, it is 10-80 µg/L. It's important to note that ferritin also functions as an acute phase reactant and can be elevated in inflammatory conditions. Therefore, ferritin values should always be assessed in conjunction with CRP to ensure correct interpretation.
What does a low level mean?
A low ferritin level, typically below 15 µg/L, often indicates iron deficiency and can be the first sign of depleted iron stores in the body. Symptoms of low ferritin include fatigue, dizziness, headache, paleness, and reduced physical performance. Causes can include insufficient iron intake, chronic blood loss (e.g., heavy menstruation or gastrointestinal bleeding), or increased iron demand during pregnancy. Particularly vulnerable groups include women of childbearing age, pregnant women, and children. Treatment often involves iron supplements and identification of the underlying cause. If low ferritin is suspected, one should contact a doctor for further investigations and treatment.
What does a high level mean?
Elevated ferritin levels can indicate iron overload but can also be caused by inflammatory conditions, liver diseases, or certain cancers. Symptoms may include joint pain, fatigue, and abdominal pain. Causes can include hemochromatosis (a genetic disorder that causes iron accumulation), repeated blood transfusions, or chronic alcohol consumption. If ferritin exceeds 1000 µg/L, further investigations should be carried out to identify the cause. It is recommended to consult a doctor, especially if there are accompanying symptoms, to get an accurate diagnosis and appropriate treatment.
Get your Ferritin level tested
At Celto, you can order a blood test for Ferritin directly online – without a referral from your doctor and without long waiting times. We have over 34 sample collection sites at public hospitals throughout Denmark, and your samples are analyzed in the same accredited laboratories used by the rest of the healthcare system. You will receive your results directly on sundhed.dk, just like all other blood tests from the public system.
How it works
When you order a blood test from Celto, you choose which markers you want tested – no doctor's referral needed. After your purchase, you will receive an email with a link to our booking system, where you choose a time and place. The blood test itself is taken by authorized healthcare personnel and typically only takes a few minutes.
Where you can get tested
Celto has over 34 sample collection sites at public hospitals and clinics throughout Denmark. You choose the location that suits you best among our partners, and there are typically available times within a few days. Find your nearest sample collection site →
How to get your results
Your blood samples are analyzed in the same laboratories used by your own doctor and the rest of the healthcare system – precisely the same quality and the same tests. You will receive your results directly on sundhed.dk within a few business days, and Celto will also send an easy-to-understand review of your values so you know what the numbers mean.