What Is Considered a Dangerously Low/High Ferritin Level?

What are other tests that may be ordered with ferritin?

Many investigations are ordered along with ferritin, depending on the original condition including:

• Complete blood count: This is done in all cases suspected of having anemia
• Total iron-binding capacity: Total iron-binding capacity (TIBC) is a good indicator of iron deficiency anemia, where it is increased when there is iron deficiency,
• HFE gene test: HFE gene is ordered in cases suspected of having hemochromatosis (iron overload)
• Bone marrow aspiration and biopsy: Bone marrow may be biopsied in some cases of anemia. This is usually needed when aplastic anemia is suspected. Aplastic anemia is when the bone marrow becomes no longer able to produce blood cells.
• Bleeding and coagulation studies: Bleeding and coagulation disorders can cause a chronic loss of blood, which causes anemia in the first place. They are usually suspected when a person presents with bleeding from abnormal sites, heavy menses, and easy bruising.
• Upper and lower gastrointestinal endoscopy: When the cause of bleeding is not known, your doctor will look for hidden sites of bleeding including the gastrointestinal system, which means that they may need to perform an endoscopy. Endoscopy involves the insertion of a camera-equipped tube through the mouth to see the esophagus and stomach (upper gastrointestinal endoscopy) or through the rectum into the colon (lower gastrointestinal endoscopy).
• Hysteroscopy: Hysteroscopy is a special investigation for female patients with heavy menses. It can examine the uterus from the inside and determine if there is any source of bleeding such as endometriosis and fibroids. In addition, your doctor may order a transvaginal ultrasound if you experience bleeding after your menopause to exclude endometrial hyperplasia and cancer.