Evidence check: Ferritin in the context of stress

Ferritin is a key marker of iron stores but also an acute-phase reactant that can rise during inflammation and stress. Chronic stress may influence ferritin levels via cortisol and inflammatory pathways—potentially elevating it due to inflammation or lowering it due to increased iron demand. The provided context does not include any direct studies on ferritin and stress. Therefore, the evidence level is mechanistic and indirect: the link is biologically plausible but not supported by the given sources. For meaningful interpretation, additional markers (CRP, transferrin, iron, hemoglobin) and clinical evaluation are required. Isolated high ferritin in stress should not be mistaken for iron overload without further testing.