Increasing ferritin levels
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Causes of Increasing Ferritin Levels
Ferritin is a protein that stores iron in the body, and its levels in the blood are commonly used to assess iron stores. However, increased ferritin levels can result from a variety of causes beyond just iron overload. Elevated ferritin is often seen in conditions such as inflammation, liver disease, metabolic syndrome, malignancy, and chronic kidney disease. It is also an acute phase protein, meaning its levels rise in response to inflammation or tissue damage, not just increased iron stores 124.
Ferritin and Inflammation
Inflammation is a major factor that can increase ferritin levels. Studies show that both acute and low-grade chronic inflammation can significantly raise ferritin concentrations, sometimes by as much as 30-90%. This can lead to an underestimation of iron deficiency if inflammation is not accounted for. Measuring markers like C-reactive protein (CRP) alongside ferritin can help distinguish between true iron overload and inflammation-driven increases in ferritin 46.
Ferritin and Metabolic Syndrome
Higher ferritin levels are independently associated with an increased risk of metabolic syndrome, a cluster of conditions that raise the risk for heart disease and diabetes. Meta-analyses indicate that people with the highest ferritin levels have a significantly higher risk of metabolic syndrome compared to those with the lowest levels, even after adjusting for inflammation .
Ferritin and Chronic Diseases
Elevated ferritin is linked to a higher risk of several chronic diseases. Increased ferritin levels are associated with a greater risk of type 2 diabetes, with the effect being stronger in women than in men. For every 100 μg/L increase in ferritin, the risk of developing type 2 diabetes rises by about 22% . Additionally, higher ferritin concentrations are associated with an increased risk of atrial fibrillation, a common heart rhythm disorder, particularly in men .
Ferritin in Dialysis and Kidney Disease
In patients undergoing dialysis, ferritin levels have increased over recent years, partly due to changes in anemia management practices. Increased intravenous iron dosing and reduced use of erythropoiesis-stimulating agents (ESAs) have both contributed to higher ferritin levels in this population .
Ferritin and Oxidative Stress
Oxidative stress, such as that caused by ultraviolet A (UVA) irradiation, can also increase ferritin levels. This is due to the activation of heme oxygenase, which releases iron from heme, leading to increased ferritin synthesis as a protective response against further oxidative damage .
Ferritin as a Marker in Mental Health
In mental health, particularly in bipolar disorder, ferritin levels may be higher during depressive episodes. This suggests a possible link between iron metabolism, inflammation, and the pathophysiology of mood disorders .
Conclusion
Increasing ferritin levels can result from a range of factors including iron overload, inflammation, metabolic syndrome, chronic diseases, changes in medical treatment, and oxidative stress. Because ferritin is influenced by many conditions, elevated levels should be interpreted carefully, often alongside other tests, to determine the underlying cause and guide appropriate management 12456789+1 MORE.
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