What can be done for elevated ferritin levels in a 50-year-old?

Question

Hello doctor,

I am a 50-year-old female who has had an elevated ferritin level for many years now. My last ferritin level was 342, 20 days back. My ferritin level has been as high as 390. My TIBC, UIBC, iron, and iron saturation have always been within normal range. My glucose has always ranged from 100 to 104.

I was tested for hemochromatosis, and the results are negative. My doctors keep telling me that we will just watch my ferritin level, and I have bloodwork done every six months. I was diagnosed with fibromyalgia last year. I am looking for some answers and some help.

Thank you.

Answer 1

Hello,

Welcome to icliniq.com.

Elevated ferritin could be from congenital hemochromatosis, but the HFE gene mutation is negative, so it is excluded (attachment removed to protect patient identity). Secondly, a hemolytic condition can also be a possibility, but serum LDH (lactic acid dehydrogenase) and reticulocyte count are normal, and HB (hemoglobin) is also within range, so it is excluded. If you have a repeated blood transfusion history, then provide a history regarding that.

I suggest you investigate transferrin saturation as well next time when you investigate ferritin. Do not worry about high serum ferritin, as all other related parameters are also within range. If ferritin constantly remains elevated, then phlebotomy can be done to decrease the ferritin level. Once the transferrin saturation investigation has been done, provide the history regarding that.

I hope this helps.

Please feel free to reach out in case of further queries.

Thank you.