Myths vs facts: Ferritin Eisenmangel and menopause

Myths vs facts: Ferritin, iron deficiency, and menopause. A common myth is that low ferritin always means iron deficiency. Fact: Ferritin is an acute-phase reactant; it rises with inflammation, infection, or liver disease, potentially masking true deficiency. During menopause, iron needs decrease due to cessation of menstruation, so ferritin often increases. Another myth: iron deficiency is rare after menopause. Fact: abnormal uterine bleeding (e.g., fibroids) or GI losses can still cause deficiency. Additionally, chronic inflammation (e.g., obesity) can elevate ferritin, hiding a real deficit. Diagnosis requires a full iron panel: transferrin saturation, soluble transferrin receptor, and CRP. A single ferritin value is misleading. Caveat: self-supplementing iron is risky – excess iron promotes oxidative stress. Always get a complete iron status workup before supplementing. Evidence is based on clinical practice and guidelines, not on the provided context.