What does high ferritin levels mean Meaning and Definition
What does high ferritin levels mean
Pronunciation
/haɪ ˈfɛrɪtn/
Part of Speech
Noun
Definition
A protein in the blood that stores iron, with high levels often indicating inflammation, infection, or liver disease
Examples
- The doctor tested for high ferritin levels after the patient complained of fatigue.
- High ferritin levels can be a sign of chronic inflammation in the body.
Synonyms
- Iron proteins
- Ferritinemia
Antonyms
- Low ferritin levels
Additional Information
High ferritin levels can be caused by a variety of factors, including inflammation, infection, and certain medications. In some cases, high ferritin levels can be a sign of liver disease or hemochromatosis. It’s essential to consult a healthcare professional for an accurate diagnosis and treatment plan.
High ferritin levels can also be associated with conditions such as rheumatoid arthritis, multiple sclerosis, and chronic fatigue syndrome.
Getting regular blood tests can help monitor ferritin levels and prevent potential complications. In some cases, high ferritin levels may require treatment with medications that reduce inflammation or slow down the production of ferritin.
Ferritin is derived from the Latin word “ferrum,” meaning iron, and the Greek word “tinein,” meaning to hold or contain.
Usage Notes
Ferritin levels can be used as a diagnostic tool for various medical conditions. They are often measured in conjunction with other lab tests to determine the underlying cause of elevated ferritin levels.
Cultural References
Ferritin has been a topic of interest in various scientific and medical communities. There are several studies and research papers published on the topic.
Idiomatic Expressions or Phrases
None found.
Related Words or Phrases
Iron, hemochromatosis, liver disease, inflammation
Collocations
High ferritin levels, low ferritin levels, iron overload, anemia
Frequency of Use
Ferritin is a word commonly used in medical and scientific contexts, particularly in the fields of hematology and medicine.
Common Misspellings
Ferritine, Ferritinimia