The Ferritin test is a simple blood test that measures the levels of ferritin in the body. Ferritin is a protein that stores iron, and this test is often used to evaluate iron levels in the body. It is an important diagnostic tool in determining conditions such as iron deficiency anemia or hemochromatosis, helping healthcare professionals to make accurate diagnoses and recommend appropriate treatments.
To continue booking, you need to select at least 1 test
* Results are available same day by 9 p.m. 99% of the time. On rare occasions, it may take up to 3 business days to receive results.
Ferritin is a protein that stores iron, an essential nutrient required to create healthy red blood cells and circulate oxygen in the body. The amount of ferritin released into the bloodstream reflects the total iron reserves present in the body. A deficiency or excess of iron can indicate a severe health problem. Medical practitioners perform a ferritin test alongside other iron tests if patients exhibit signs of anemia or iron overload or if their CBC test indicates low hemoglobin or hematocrit levels.
The ferritin test determines if your body retains a typical iron level and is often assessed concurrently with liver function tests, blood tests, or iron studies. However, the ferritin test result can be interpreted alone. This test examines, diagnoses, or tracks specific medical conditions. Iron deficiency anemia occurs when the body lacks enough iron to produce red blood cells, reducing oxygen delivery to organs and muscles. On the other hand, excessive iron in the body, also known as iron overload or hemochromatosis, can produce iron deposition in organs such as the liver, heart, and pancreas, causing severe damage as the body lacks a natural mechanism to eliminate the excess iron. When the liver is damaged or ill, ferritin proteins that store a significant portion of the body's iron can escape into the bloodstream. As a result, ferritin testing can be used to detect liver disorders such as hepatitis B and C infections, cirrhosis, and alcohol abuse. In cases of Restless Legs Syndrome (RLS), identified by unpleasant limb sensations and an intense desire to move them, ferritin testing can be used to determine if iron deficiency contributes to the symptoms. Adult-onset Still's disease (AOSD), a rare condition that causes joint pain and swelling, fever, rash, and elevated ferritin levels, is another condition that can be diagnosed using ferritin testing.
While ferritin concentration remains unaffected by food intake, some iron studies tests may need specific preparation. For instance, if the blood test includes measuring transferrin saturation levels and iron levels alongside ferritin levels, it may require fasting, implying refraining from consuming any food or drink, except water, before the test for up to 12 hours. Otherwise, the testing process is straightforward, and minimal preparation is required.
The main objective of a ferritin blood test is to assess iron levels in the body and evaluate overall health. Ferritin is a protein that stores iron, and measuring its levels can help diagnose iron deficiency or overload. Low ferritin levels may indicate iron deficiency anemia, whereas high levels may suggest iron overload or certain conditions like hemochromatosis. By measuring ferritin, healthcare providers can determine the body's iron storage capacity and identify any imbalances that may affect health.
To prepare for a ferritin blood test, your doctor may advise you to fast for 12 hours before the test, as food can affect the results. You may also be advised to avoid iron supplements for a few days before the test. During the sample collection process, a healthcare provider will draw blood from a vein in your arm. The area may be cleaned with an antiseptic, and a small needle will be inserted to collect the blood sample. You may feel a slight pinch or prick during the procedure, but it usually only takes a few minutes. After the test, you can resume your normal activities and diet unless instructed otherwise by your doctor. Your results should be available within a few days.
Ferritin is a protein critical in storing iron in your body. Ferritin is predominantly present in the liver, spleen, and bone marrow. Ferritin binds to iron and helps keep it in a safe, non-toxic form until the body needs it. Iron is essential for several bodily functions, including producing hemoglobin, the protein in red blood cells that carries oxygen throughout the body. When your body needs iron, ferritin releases the stored iron, allowing it to be used in various processes. A low ferritin level can indicate an iron deficiency, which can cause anemia, fatigue, and other health problems. A high ferritin level can suggest iron overload caused by hemochromatosis, liver disease, or blood disorders. High ferritin levels can also be associated with chronic inflammation, infection, or certain types of cancer. You can perform the ferritin test in Montreal at our nearby laboratory, ensuring fast and seamless results are delivered within 24 hours.
The normal reference ranges for ferritin levels can vary depending on the laboratory performing the test. However, generally, the reference range for adults is around 12 to 300 nanograms per milliliter (ng/mL) for males and 12 to 150 ng/mL for females. Interpretation of results outside these ranges depends on the context and individual circumstances. Low ferritin levels may indicate iron deficiency anemia, while high levels could indicate iron overload or certain medical conditions. It's important to consult a healthcare provider to interpret the results accurately and determine the appropriate action.
A ferritin blood test may be warranted in several situations. It is commonly used to investigate symptoms associated with iron deficiency or iron overload, such as fatigue, weakness, pale skin, dizziness, or abdominal pain. The test is also valuable in diagnosing and managing conditions like iron deficiency anemia, hemochromatosis (excessive iron absorption), or chronic inflammatory diseases that affect iron metabolism. Furthermore, ferritin levels may be monitored in patients receiving iron supplementation or undergoing treatments for conditions related to iron metabolism. Your healthcare provider will determine if a ferritin blood test is necessary based on your specific symptoms and medical history.
Certain medications, supplements, and lifestyle factors can influence ferritin levels, potentially leading to inaccurate ferritin lab test results. Iron supplements, vitamin C supplements, and antacids containing aluminum or magnesium can affect ferritin levels. Chronic alcohol consumption and certain chronic diseases can also influence ferritin levels. To ensure accurate test results, it's crucial to inform your healthcare provider about any medications, supplements, or lifestyle factors that might affect ferritin levels. They can guide you on whether you need to adjust your medication regimen or follow any specific instructions before the test to obtain reliable and meaningful ferritin results.
Best Prices
Our fully automated private laboratory with cutting edge technology is able to reduce costs while increasing consistency and reproducibility of results.
Faster Service
We have designed our clinics and testing processes to be efficient, reducing wait times and time for results.
More Precise Information
Our test reports provide more precise information on test results, making it easier to monitor any changes in your health over time.
Free Parking
All our clinics provide free and available parking, helping you to save even more money and time.
Customer Support
Our online booking portal and helpful testing center staff help to make diagnostic testing more convenient and compassionate.
IMPLEMENT AFFORDABLE ACTION
Companies and institutions can deploy large-scale diagnostic testing at a fraction of the cost of testing centers with Lilium’s automated laboratory testing platforms and reporting.
STAY AHEAD OF OUTBREAKS
Lilium's pioneering testing system secures workplaces and communities against expensive shutdowns by keeping businesses and organizations ahead of outbreaks.
REDUCE RISKS
Robotic analysis improves accuracy of results by drastically reducing the risk of false negatives and positives.
To make an appointment, please choose from one of our clinics below:
Monday - Saturday
7:00 - 10:00
12:00 - 15:00
We provide FREE parking at our convenient locations
Our downtown Montreal location is located on the mezzanine level of the Alexis Nihon Center with 1 hour free indoor parking. Atwater metro station has a direct inside connection to Alexis Nihon.
If you’re driving to our Laval location, we are right off Autoroute 15 and have plenty of free parking.
If you arrive by public metro, there is a walkway to our lab from Metro Montmorency (a 20 minute walk).
What our customers say about us
Natalya Mitula
Very happy with my experience at Lilium, the testing process was extremely efficient and hassle free. I ran into an issue and customer service was incredible, truly a pleasure to see there are great companies like this one. Would work for them. And yes, great price, same day results at the advertised time by e-mail with a detailed report and an invoice. Truly impressed.
Dr. Julie Sigal Rosenmann
Incredibly efficient. Very kind staff, our appointment was at 9:15 and by 9:17 we were in our car on our way back. The place is very clean, with proper seating (having a screen between every 4 seats). Amazing price in comparison to other places. 10/10 would recommend!
Dalila Barkat
Bravo for the service rendered, I am amazed. No need to spend your money elsewhere. Go to LILIUM DIAGNOSTICS it’s the mega top!
Rama
I’ve never had such a wonderful feeling doing medical things in Canada. It takes just a blink of an eye, very clean and fast, thank you.
ASK US ANYTHING
We're here to help make sense of it all.
Or send us an e-mail
Montreal clinic hours
07:00 - 14:00
Monday - Saturday
Closed April 21
Email support
07:00 - 21:00
Monday - Saturday
Laval clinic hours
07:00 - 15:00
Monday - Saturday
Closed January 1
Phone support
07:00 - 15:00
Monday - Saturday
© 2024 Lilium Diagnostics. All rights reserved.
Certified in Canada
