What does low ferritin mean?

The normal reference range for serum ferritin is 15–200 μg/L in adult males and 12–150 μg/L in adult females. Serum ferritin levels below this reference range are termed “low ferritin.” So, what does low ferritin indicate?

What Causes Low Ferritin?

Causes of low ferritin include: • Inadequate dietary iron intake: Infants, young children, and adolescents are undergoing rapid growth and development and thus have higher iron requirements. A monotonous diet may easily lead to low ferritin levels. Similarly, pregnant and lactating women have increased iron demands; insufficient supplementation can also result in low ferritin. Chronic malnutrition may likewise cause low ferritin. • Poor iron absorption: Reduced gastric acid secretion impairs iron absorption. Conditions such as chronic gastritis or gastrointestinal functional disorders may therefore contribute to low ferritin.

Health consequences of low ferritin: • Iron-deficiency anemia: Low ferritin reduces hemoglobin synthesis, leading to iron-deficiency anemia. • Generalized weakness: Diminished hemoglobin oxygen-carrying capacity due to low ferritin may manifest as impaired memory, palpitations, and shortness of breath. • Systemic functional disturbances: Low ferritin may impair cellular redox function, resulting in irritability, poor concentration, dry or brittle hair, and hair loss. Some patients may also experience dysphagia or atrophic glossitis (shrinkage of the tongue papillae).

Women with low ferritin may experience menstrual irregularities. We hope this information has been helpful!