Risks and limits of Ferritin Basis

Elevated ferritin may indicate iron overload (hemochromatosis) or inflammation, as ferritin is an acute-phase reactant. Ferritin alone is insufficient to diagnose iron overload; transferrin saturation, serum iron, and possibly HFE genetic testing are required. Low ferritin indicates iron deficiency, but can be falsely normal in inflammation. Risks of misinterpretation: unnecessary iron supplementation when ferritin is high (risk of iron overload) or missed iron deficiency when ferritin is normal but inflammation is present. Limits: ferritin is non-specific; liver disease, tumors, metabolic syndrome, and chronic inflammation can raise ferritin. Self-supplementation is dangerous – always seek medical evaluation with a complete iron panel. Evidence: mechanistic (lab physiology).