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Ferritin

Ferritin is a protein that stores iron in cells and releases it in a controlled manner. It is found in almost all cells of the body, but is most abundant in the liver, spleen, and bone marrow. Low levels of ferritin indicate iron deficiency anemia, a condition in which the body does not have enough iron to produce hemoglobin, the protein in red blood cells that carries oxygen to tissues throughout the body. Symptoms of iron deficiency anemia may include fatigue, weakness, shortness of breath, dizziness, and pale skin. High levels of ferritin can indicate iron overload, which can be caused by a variety of conditions such as hereditary hemochromatosis, thalassemia, and chronic liver disease. Symptoms of iron overload may include fatigue, joint pain, abdominal pain, and organ damage. Ferritin levels can also be used to monitor treatment for iron deficiency anemia or iron overload, as well as to evaluate the effectiveness of treatment for certain conditions such as chronic kidney disease.

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