Common mistakes around Ferritin Labor

Common mistakes around ferritin lab testing include: 1) Testing during acute inflammation – ferritin is an acute-phase reactant and can be falsely elevated during infections or chronic inflammation. 2) Not fasting – food intake can transiently affect levels. 3) Interpreting ferritin in isolation – a full iron panel (transferrin saturation, soluble transferrin receptor) is needed to assess iron deficiency or overload. 4) Ignoring lab-specific reference ranges – these vary by age, sex, and assay. 5) Assuming low ferritin always means iron deficiency – thyroid disorders or vitamin C deficiency can also lower ferritin. 6) Overlooking hereditary hemochromatosis when ferritin is high – genetic testing may be warranted. Evidence is based on clinical practice guidelines, not on the provided context.