Reference range
Conventionalng/mL
12300
SIµg/L
12300
| Specimen | Serum |
|---|---|
| Conventional range | 12–300 ng/mL |
| SI range | 12–300 µg/L |
| Conversion factor | ×1 (conventional → SI) |
| Panel | Iron Studies |
Convert any Ferritin result between units on the unit converter.
Iron Studies
Ferritin
Normal range 12–300 ng/mL (12–300 µg/L SI). Specimen: Serum.
Also known as: serum ferritin.
12–300 ng/mLReference range
What is the normal range for Ferritin?
The standard teaching reference range for Ferritin is 12–300 ng/mL in conventional units, or 12–300 µg/L in SI units. This value is measured in serum.
Source: Adult reference values compiled from Pagana & Pagana, Mosby's Diagnostic and Laboratory Test Reference, and Fischbach & Dunning, A Manual of Laboratory and Diagnostic Tests. Reference ranges vary by laboratory, method, age, sex, and population — always use the range printed on the actual result.
Above the range
Common causes of a high Ferritin
- Iron overload / hemochromatosis
- Inflammation or infection (acute-phase reactant)
- Liver disease
- Malignancy
Below the range
Common causes of a low Ferritin
- Iron-deficiency anemia (most specific test)
At the bedside
Nursing considerations
- Reflects total body iron stores; a low ferritin is the earliest sign of iron deficiency.
- Inflammation raises ferritin and can mask true deficiency.
Typical ranges: men ~24–336 and women ~11–307 µg/L.
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