Download a Serum Ferritin Tracker PDF
If you've had blood transfusions, your doctor might order a simple blood test known as the serum ferritin test to find out the level of iron in your body. As you continue to have transfusions, your doctor will track your iron or serum ferritin levels. Ask him or her to tell you the results of your tests. If your iron level continues to be over 1000 mcg/L (micrograms per liter), you have iron overload.
Write down your test results in one place, such as the Serum Ferritin Diary. Each time you visit your doctor, remember to take your diary with you so your doctor can review your serum ferritin levels.
Once you've been diagnosed with iron overload, it's important for your doctor to monitor you to be sure your iron levels are where they should be. Even if you don't have iron overload, if you continue to have transfusions, ask your doctor when you should be tested to find out if your iron levels have changed.
