Iron Studies (Ferritin and Iron)
Blood tests that show how much iron is in your body and stored.
Quick Summary
To diagnose iron deficiency or iron overload.
Serum iron, ferritin, total iron-binding capacity (TIBC) and transferrin saturation.
Some labs prefer a morning, fasting sample.
Overview
Ferritin shows the body's iron stores and is the best single test for iron deficiency.
Ferritin also rises with inflammation, so results are interpreted together.
What It Measures
Ferritin
Stored iron.
Serum iron
Iron in the blood.
TIBC and transferrin saturation
How much iron is being carried.
How It's Performed
- 01
Preparation
Usually no special preparation. Tell the staff about medicines you take.
- 02
Blood sample
A small amount of blood is taken from a vein in your arm with a thin needle.
- 03
Afterwards
Press on the spot for a minute. A small bruise is common; you can go back to normal activities.
Reference Ranges
Note: Normal ranges vary by laboratory. Consult your report for the specific reference used.
| Parameter | Typical Range (Adult) | Units |
|---|---|---|
| Ferritin (men) | 24–336 | ng/mL |
| Ferritin (women) | 11–307 | ng/mL |
| Transferrin saturation | 20–50 | % |
Interpreting Results & Next Steps
Discuss with Doctor
Normal ranges differ between laboratories, ages and sexes; always use the range printed on your report and ask your doctor what your results mean.
If values are Low:
Low ferritin means iron deficiency.
If values are High:
High ferritin can mean inflammation, liver disease or iron overload.
Sources and further reading
Last updated 21 October 2026. For more detail, see these trusted health organisations.
- Iron Tests(opens in a new tab) · MedlinePlus, US National Library of Medicine
- Total iron-binding capacity (TIBC) and transferrin test(opens in a new tab) · NHS
- Ferritin blood test(opens in a new tab) · MedlinePlus, US National Library of Medicine