ferritin level question

[egyptian]

hi

if my ferritin level was 166, while both my TIBC and serum iron were low does this mean i have some infection?

thanks.

[Bhupinder Kaur, MD]

Hello,
High serum ferritin with a low TIBC and serum iron means that there is a chronic infection or it indicates anemia of chronic disease. These infections include autoimmune diseases, chronic kindey disease, liver cirrhosis, long term infections such as chronic bacterial endocarditis, osteomyelitis (bone infection), HIV/AIDS, hepatitis B or hepatitis C.

Please get an evaluation done from a physician to determine the cause.
I sincerely hope that helps. Take care and please do keep me posted on how you are doing.

[Dr Prasad, MBBS]

Thanks for the query.
Serum iron study is not a good modality to indicate infection. You need to get a blood count done to see your haemoglobin. Peripheral smear will also help. Seek a physician's opinion soon.
Have a nice day.