Ferritin assay

Description

Intended Use

For the quantitative in vitro determination of Ferritin in serum or plasma. This product is suitable for automated, semi-automated and manual use.

Clinical Significance

Ferritin originates in the reticuloendothelial system.
It consists of a protein shell, apoferritin (MW 445000) containing varying amounts of iron in its core as ferric hydroxide – phosphate complexes. All complexes contain 2 separate subunits, the acidic H (heavy) type and the weakly basic L (light) type subunit. While the basic isoferritins are concerned with the long-term storage of iron, they are present in the liver, spleen and bone marrow, the acidic isoferritins can be found mainly in the placenta, tumour tissue and myocardium.

Ferritin determination is a good indicator of iron stores in both normal persons and in individuals with iron deficiency or those who are undergoing iron therapy. This assay can be used to differentiate hypochromic anaemia (thalassemia or chronic infection and tumour anaemias).

Available Applications

• Hitachi 917/Mod P
• RX modena