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Vitality

Normally, the result is:

- Women > 16 y: 3,85 - 5,2 xE12/l 
- Men > 16 y: 4,2 - 5,7 xE12/l

The reference values of this examination have changed 11.10.2021. You will find your own result's reference values from My LOUNA in touch with the graph.

Eryt is part of the Complete blood count and Basic blood count.

Please contact your physician or other healthcare professional if you suspect an illness or need help interpreting the results.

Decreased values are usually caused by anemia.

Eryt is part of the [Complete blood count](https://lounalab.fi/en/products/examination/taydellinen-verenkuva) and [Basic blood count](https://lounalab.fi/en/products/examination/perusverenkuva-ja-trombosyytit). The number of red blood cells (Eryt) is the actual number of red blood cells in proportion to the blood volume. Both a decrease and an increase may be indicative of an abnormal condition.

Blood count

B -Eryt

Reference values of haemoglobin are:

- Women over 17 y:  117-155 g/l
- Men over 17 y:    134-167 g/l

The reference values of this examination have changed 11.10.2021. You will find your own result's reference values from My LOUNA in touch with the graph.

Please contact your physician or other healthcare professional if you suspect an illness or need help interpreting the results.

Haemoglobin is also part of the Complete blood count and Basic blood count.

Haemoglobin (Hb) measures the amount of the oxygen-delivering protein in the blood.
Haemoglobin is also part of the [Complete blood count](https://lounalab.fi/en/products/examination/taydellinen-verenkuva) and [Basic blood count](https://lounalab.fi/en/products/examination/perusverenkuva-ja-trombosyytit).

B-Hb, hemoglobin

Haemoglobin (Hb) measures the amount of the oxygen-delivering protein in the blood.

Normally, the result is:

- Women > 17 y: 34-46 % 
- Men > 17 y: 38-50 % 

The reference values of this examination have changed 11.10.2021. You will find your own result's reference values from My LOUNA in touch with the graph.

Haematocrit is part of the Complete blood count and Basic blood count.

Please contact your physician or other healthcare professional if you suspect an illness or need help interpreting the results.

Haematocrit (HKR) measures the relative share of red blood cells of blood volume.
Haematocrit is part of the [Complete blood count](https://lounalab.fi/en/products/examination/taydellinen-verenkuva) and [Basic blood count](https://lounalab.fi/en/products/examination/perusverenkuva-ja-trombosyytit).

B -HKR

The number of white blood cells (Leuk) is the actual number of white blood cells in proportion to the blood volume. Either a decrease or an increase may be significant. There are five types of white blood cells, which carry out separate tasks in protecting the body against infection: neutrophils (Neut), lymphocytes (Lymf), monocytes (Mono), eosinophils (Eos), and basophils (Baso). 

The number of red blood cells (Eryt) is the actual number of red blood cells in proportion to the blood volume. Either a decrease or an increase may be indicative of an abnormal condition. 

Haemoglobin (Hb) measures the amount of the oxygen-delivering protein in the blood. 

Haematocrit (HKR) measures the relative share of red blood cells of blood volume. 

Mean corpuscular volume (MCV) measures the average size of the red blood cells.  

Mean corpuscular haemoglobin (MCH) measures the amount of oxygen-delivering haemoglobin  

in the red blood cells. Large red blood cells tend to have a higher MCH level, in other words, the average amount of haemoglobin. 

Mean corpuscular haemoglobin concentration (MCHC) measures the concentration of haemoglobin in the blood cells. Increased MCHC levels (hyperchromia) are detected in circumstances in which the haemoglobin is abnormally concentrated inside the red blood cells. 

Thrombocytes (Tromb) measures the number of platelets in the blood. Either a decrease or an increase may be indicative of bleeding or bone marrow disorders.

White blood cells (Leuk) 

- Bacterial or viral infection 
- Autoimmune diseases 
- Cancer  affects the production of cells in the bone marrow 
- Acute leukaemia (a malignant disorder in which the production of white blood cells increases abnormally) 
- Malignant blood disease disrupting the production of white blood cells (myeloproliferative disorder) 

Red blood cells (Eryt)  

- Dehydration  
- Burn 

The MCV is elevated when the red blood cells are abnormally large (macrocytic) 

Thrombocytes (Tromb) 

- Bleeding 
- Inflammation 
- Infections 
- Post-surgery 
- Bone marrow disorders 
- Spleen insufficiency 

White blood cells (Leuk) 

- Some medicinal products 
- Autoimmune diseases 
- Bone marrow insufficiency 
- Some vitamin and mineral deficiencies may cause anaemia 
- Viral infection 
- Enlarged spleen 
- Acute leukaemia 
- Red blood cells (Eryt) 

Anaemia 

The MCV is decreased when the red blood cells are abnormally small (microcytic) 

- Iron deficiency anaemia 
- Long-term inflammation 
- Blood disease or thalassemia 

MCH 

- Iron deficiency 
- Inflammation 
- Thalassemia 

Reduced MCHC values (hypochromia) are detected in connection with:  

- Iron deficiency anaemia 
- Long-term inflammation 
- Thalassemia 

Thrombocytes (Tromb) 

- Vitamin deficiency 
- Some medicinal products (for chemotherapy) 
- Excessive use of alcohol 
- Liver diseases 
- Enlarged spleen 
- Bone marrow disorder 
- Viral infection 
- Autoimmune diseases  
- Megaloblastic anaemia (large red blood cells) 
- Blood diseases 

- Transferrin receptor, soluble, carries iron into cells and tissues (1949 S -TfR) 
- Ferritin indicates the status of the iron reserves of the body (1395 S-Ferrit) 
- All cells in the body need iron (2566 fS-Fe)

SYNLAB test list: Blood count and leucocyte differential count (2474 B -PVK+T, 3696 B -TVK, 2225 B-Diffi)https://www2.synlab.fi/laboratoriokasikirja/tutkimuskuvaukset/verenkuva-leukosyyttien/ 

Terveyskirjasto health library: Perusverenkuva (B-PVK) https://www.terveyskirjasto.fi/terveyskirjasto/tk.koti?p_artikkeli=snk03030&p_hakusana=pvk 

LabTest online: Full Blood Count (FBC) https://labtestsonline.org.uk/tests/full-blood-count-fbc

Basic blood count and thrombocytes (B-PVK+T) provides an overview of haemoglobin and different blood cells. The blood count tests for red cells (erythrocytes), white cells (leucocytes), and platelets (thrombocytes). Abnormal results for these cells may be a sign of illness. 

The blood consists of various cells circulating through the arteries, heart, and veins and delivering nutrients, hormones, vitamins, antibodies, and oxygen to the tissues. Red blood cells contain a protein called haemoglobin, which delivers oxygen to tissues. White blood cells protect the body against bacteria, viruses, and fungal infections and regulate the immunological process. Platelets promote coagulation in the event of wounds and ruptured blood vessels. 

## When is a good time to measure the PVK+T value? 

- Fatigue 
- Weakness 
- Infection 
- Bruises or bleeding 
- Stomach pain 
- Paleness 
- Headache 
- Elevated heart rate 
- Tongue pain 
- Fragile fingernails 
- Humming in the ears 

## What does the PVK+T test measure? 

The basic blood count is a very common test that is used for screening, diagnosing, and monitoring various conditions. Chronic diseases (kidney failure, rheumatic diseases, chronic infections) involve anaemia. A basic blood count is a narrower test than a complete blood count (B-TVK). A complete blood count includes itemisation of white blood cells.


B -PVK+T

Basic blood count and thrombocytes provides an overview of red and white blood cells and platelets.

Normally, the result is: 
 > 16 years	 145–360 xE9/l

Please contact your physician or other healthcare professional if you suspect an illness or need help interpreting the results.

Tromb is part of the Complete blood count and Basic blood count.

High values of Thrombocytes (Tromb) can be caused by:
- Bleeding
- Inflammation
- Infections
- Post-surgery
- Bone marrow disorders
- Spleen insufficiency

Thrombocytes (Tromb)

- Vitamin deficiency
- Some medicinal products (for chemotherapy)
- Excessive use of alcohol
- Liver diseases
- Enlarged spleen
- Bone marrow disorder
- Viral infection
- Autoimmune diseases 
- Megaloblastic anaemia (large red blood cells)
- Blood diseases

Trombocytes is part of the [Complete blood count](https://lounalab.fi/en/products/examination/taydellinen-verenkuva) and [Basic blood count](https://lounalab.fi/en/products/examination/perusverenkuva-ja-trombosyytit). Thrombocytes (Tromb) measures the number of platelets in the blood. Either a decrease or an increase may be indicative of bleeding or bone marrow disorders.

B -Trom

Trombocytes (B-Trom) is part of the Complete blood count and Basic blood count.

Normally, the result is: 
- over 16 y:	3,3 - 8,2 xE9/l 

The reference values of this examination have changed 11.10.2021. You will find your own result's reference values from My LOUNA in touch with the graph. Please contact your physician or other healthcare professional if you suspect an illness or need help interpreting the results.

B -Leuk is part of the Complete blood count and Basic blood count.

White blood cells (Leuk):
- Bacterial or viral infection
- Autoimmune diseases
- Cancer  affects the production of cells in the bone marrow
- Acute leukaemia (a malignant disorder in which the production of white blood cells increases abnormally)
- Malignant blood disease disrupting the production of white blood cells (myeloproliferative disorder)


White blood cells (Leuk)
- Some medicinal products
- Autoimmune diseases
- Bone marrow insufficiency
- Some vitamin and mineral deficiencies may cause anaemia
- Viral infection
- Enlarged spleen
- Acute leukaemia


B-Leuk is part of the [Complete blood count](https://lounalab.fi/en/products/examination/taydellinen-verenkuva) and [Basic blood count](https://lounalab.fi/en/products/examination/perusverenkuva-ja-trombosyytit). The number of white blood cells (Leuk) is the actual number of white blood cells in proportion to the blood volume. Either a decrease or an increase may be significant. There are five types of white blood cells, which carry out separate tasks in protecting the body against infection: neutrophils (Neut), lymphocytes (Lymf), monocytes (Mono), eosinophils (Eos), and basophils (Baso).

B-Leuk

Leukocytes test without referral. Leukocytes (B-Leuk), or white blood cells, play an important role in protecting against infections. Check it out and make an appointment for research.

Leukocytes (B-Leuk) test 9,95 €

The number of white blood cells (B-Leuk). B-Leuk is part of the Complete blood count and Basic blood count. 

Normally, the result is:
- Women > 13 v   27 – 33 pg
- Men > 13 v   27 – 33 pg

Please contact your physician or other healthcare professional if you suspect an illness or need help interpreting the results.

MCH is part of the Complete blood count and Basic blood count.

- Iron deficiency
- Inflammation
- Thalassemia

MCH is part of the [Complete blood count](https://lounalab.fi/en/products/examination/taydellinen-verenkuva) and [Basic blood count](https://lounalab.fi/en/products/examination/perusverenkuva-ja-trombosyytit). Mean corpuscular haemoglobin (MCH) measures the amount of oxygen-delivering haemoglobin in the red blood cells. Large red blood cells tend to have a higher MCH level, in other words, the average amount of haemoglobin.


E -MCH

Mean corpuscular haemoglobin (MCH) measures the amount of oxygen-delivering haemoglobin in the red blood cells. MCH is part of the Complete blood count and Basic blood count.

Normally, the result is:
- Women > 13 v   320 – 355 g/l
- Men > 13 v     320 – 355 g/l

The reference values of this examination have changed 11.10.2021. You will find your own result's reference values from My LOUNA in touch with the graph.

MCHC is part of the Complete blood count and Basic blood count.

Please contact your physician or other healthcare professional if you suspect an illness or need help interpreting the results.


Reduced MCHC values (hypochromia) are detected in connection with: 
- Iron deficiency anaemia
- Long-term inflammation
- Thalassemia


MCHC is part of the [Complete blood count](https://lounalab.fi/en/products/examination/taydellinen-verenkuva) and [Basic blood count](https://lounalab.fi/en/products/examination/perusverenkuva-ja-trombosyytit). Mean corpuscular haemoglobin concentration (MCHC) measures the concentration of haemoglobin in the blood cells. Increased MCHC levels (hyperchromia) are detected in circumstances in which the haemoglobin is abnormally concentrated inside the red blood cells.

E -MCHC

Mean corpuscular haemoglobin concentration E-MCHC. MCHC is part of the Complete blood count and Basic blood count. 

Reference values:
- Women 13-15 v  80-94 fl
- Men 13-15 v    80-94 fl
- Women > 15 v   82-98 fl
- Men > 15 v     82-98 fl

The reference values of this examination have changed 11.10.2021. You will find your own result's reference values from My LOUNA in touch with the graph.

MCV is part of the Complete blood count and Basic blood count.

Please contact your physician or other healthcare professional if you suspect an illness or need help interpreting the results.


The MCV is elevated when the red blood cells are abnormally large (macrocytic). This can be caused by for example:
- Excessive use of alcohol
- Folic acid deficiency
- Liver disease
- Hypothyroidism (underactive thyroid)
- Pregnancy
- Bone marrow disorders

The MCV is decreased when the red blood cells are abnormally small (microcytic)

- Iron deficiency anaemia
- Long-term inflammation
- Blood disease or thalassemia


MCV is part of the [Complete blood count](https://lounalab.fi/en/products/examination/taydellinen-verenkuva) and [Basic blood count](https://lounalab.fi/en/products/examination/perusverenkuva-ja-trombosyytit). Mean corpuscular volume (MCV) measures the average size of the red blood cells.

E -MCV

Mean corpuscular volume (E-MCV). MCV is part of the Complete blood count and Basic blood count.

Vitamins

Reference values:
- E-Retik: 0.2–2.0% 

Please contact your physician or other healthcare professional if you suspect an illness or need help interpreting the results.

Read [more](https://lounalab.fi/article/miten-suhtautua-laboratoriotutkimusten-tuloksiin-ja-milloin-tulos-on) about defining reference values.

An increased level of reticulocytes in the bloodstream indicates increased formation of red blood cells. This condition is known as reticulocytosis. Elevated levels can occur in connection with anaemia and haemorrhage. Reticulocytosis also occurs when treating anaemia with iron medication.

Sometimes, the level of reticulocytes in the blood is too low. This can be caused by a disorder in bone marrow function, such as bone marrow loss. Low reticulocyte values are also see in connection with viral infections, liver cirrhosis, or diseases of the kidneys.

SYNLAB test list: Reticulocytes (2581 B-Retik, 2582 E-Retik) https://www2.synlab.fi/laboratoriokasikirja/tutkimuskuvaukset/retikulosyytit/ 

Lab Tests Online: Reticulocytes https://labtestsonline.org/tests/reticulocytes 

The bone marrow produces red blood cells into the bloodstream. Reticulocytes (reticulum (Latin) “reticle”, kytos (Greek) cell) are immature forms of red blood cells. The reticulocyte phase of red blood cells lasts for approximately 2–3 days, after which they become mature red blood cells. Because red blood cells live for approximately 120 days, the bone marrow continuously produces reticulocytes as old red blood cells are destroyed. 

## When should reticulocytes be measured? 

A reticulocyte test is a good idea in connection with low haemoglobin levels or if the number of red blood cells is found to be low. The test is also done in connection with diseases of the liver or kidneys. Reticulocytes can also be tested in connection with the following symptoms: 

- Fatigue 
- Weakness 
- Infection 
- Bruises or bleeding 
- Stomach pain 
- Paleness 
- Headache 

## What does a reticulocyte test measure? 

The test aims to investigate the ability of the bone marrow to produce red blood cells, and it is of assistance in distinguishing the cause of anaemia.

Iron

Reticulocytes

Bones and muscles

Normally, the result is: 

Reference values:
- 7-46 nmol/l

The reference values of this examination have changed 6.10.2022. You will find your own result's reference values from My LOUNA in touch with the graph.
Read [more](https://lounalab.fi/article/miten-suhtautua-laboratoriotutkimusten-tuloksiin-ja-milloin-tulos-on) about defining reference values.

Please contact your physician or other healthcare professional if you suspect an illness or need help interpreting the results.


Low folate levels can be caused by: 

- Malnutrition/insufficient diet 
- Anaemia 
- Malabsorption from the intestine 
- Alcoholism 
- Pregnancy and breastfeeding 
- Tuberculosis 
- Certain malignant tumours 
- Rheumatoid arthritis 
- Changed gut bacteria due to drugs or chemotherapy 
- Some drugs (e.g. oral contraceptives, antirheumatic drugs, and antiepileptic drugs)

- Vitamin B12 supports the function of the brain and nervous system (1142 S-B12-TC2) 
- Complete blood count (CBC) shows the number of red and white blood cells, number of platelets, and cell type (3696 B-TVK) 
- Ferritin indicates the status of the iron reserves of the body (1395 S-Ferrit) 
- Transferrin receptor, soluble, carries iron into cells and tissues (1949 S-TfR) 

SYNLAB test list: https://www.yml.fi/tuotekuvaus_show.php?tuotenro=131

National Institute for Health and Welfare: Foolihappo ja raskaus https://thl.fi/fi/web/elintavat-ja-ravitsemus/ravitsemus/ravitsemussuositukset/raskaus-ja-imetysaika/foolihappo-ja-raskaus 

FEMEDA: Mitä eroa on foolihapolla ja folaatilla ja miksi se on tärkeä myös raskauteen liittyen? 
https://www.femeda.fi/artikkelit/mita-eroa-on-foolihapolla-ja-folaatilla-ja-miksi-se-on-tarkea-myos-raskauteen-liittyen/

Folate is water-soluble vitamin B9 that is obtained from food and produced by gut microbes. Folate is stored in the liver. Folic acid is a synthetic vitamin that is similar to folate, and it is found in vitamin products, nutritional supplements, and some supplemented foods. Vitamin B12 is needed in converting folate to the biologically active form. 

Folate is needed for several important tasks:  

- Cell division 
- DNA synthesis 
- Protein synthesis 
- Red blood cell production 
- Hydrochloric acid formation in the stomach 
- Brain metabolism 

During pregnancy, the need for folate increases, and it reduces the risk of neural tube defects in the baby. 

Among foods, folate is found at high levels in dark-green vegetables, legumes, berries, fruit, and whole-grain products. Folate breaks down quickly and is sensitive to heat. For example, cooking food for a long time destroys folate. 

## When should folate be measured? 

Folate can be associated with the following symptoms: 

- Muscle weakness 
- Nerve symptoms 
- Loss of appetite 
- Weakened immune defence 
- Fatigue 
- Changes in the oral mucosa 
- Dizziness 
- Slowing down of growth 
- Skin changes 

## What does a folate test measure? 

Folate is an indicator of the folic acid balance in the body. The value is sensitive to dietary changes. 

Folate is measured, for example, when investigating malabsorption of nutrients or a general disturbance in nutrition and cause of anaemia.

fS-Folaat

Folate affects the well-being of the brain and cells.  Folate is water-soluble vitamin B9 that is obtained from food and produced by gut microbes.

Diet

Normally, the result is:  

Reference values: 
> 35 pmol/l

Please contact your physician or other healthcare professional if you suspect an illness or need help interpreting the results.

Read [more](https://lounalab.fi/article/miten-suhtautua-laboratoriotutkimusten-tuloksiin-ja-milloin-tulos-on) about defining reference values.

People who have received vitamin B12 treatment have been found to have elevated levels of vitamin B12. If the excessive intake of vitamin B12 is caused by vitamin supplements, this is not dangerous. Therefore, you should have the blood test taken before receiving the vitamin B12 treatment dose. Elevated vitamin B12 levels can also be caused by liver and kidney diseases or a malignant tumour.

Usually, vitamin B12 deficiency is caused by absorption problems. Decreased gastric acid concentration and an increase in stomach pH weaken the absorption of vitamin B12. Gastric acidity can be decreased by an autoimmune disease or a helicobacteria-induced stomach infection, or gastritis. Some medications, such as antacids and the diabetes drug metformin, as well as diseases of the small intestine (coeliac disease), can weaken the absorption of vitamin B12. 

Low vitamin B12 levels can also be caused by diet. Vitamin B12 only exists in high concentrations in products of animal origin, and if a person following a vegan diet does not take it as a supplement, its concentration in the blood decreases. 

The secretion of vitamin B12 from the kidneys increases in connection with high alcohol consumption. 

Decreased vitamin B12 levels can also occur among those following a vegetarian diet. Vitamin B12 deficiency causes anaemia and nervous symptoms, and the blood platelet and white blood cell counts are lower than normal. It is typical of anaemia caused by vitamin B12 deficiency that the red blood cells are unusually large. This type of anaemia is known as megaloblastic anaemia.

- Complete blood count (CBC), shows the number of red and white blood cells, number of platelets, and cell type (3696 B-TVK) 
- Homocysteine is connected to clotting events and blood clots (1867 P-Hcyst) 
- Folic acid has effects on the well-being of the brain and cells (1416 fS-Folaat)

SYNLAB test list: https://www2.synlab.fi/laboratoriokasikirja/tutkimuskuvaukset/b12-vitamiini-aktiivinen-transkobalamiini-ii-een-sitoutunut-1142-s-b12-tc2/ 

SYNLAB vitamin B12 https://www.yml.fi/tuotekuvaus_show.php?tuotenro=43 

Terveyskirjasto health library: B12-vitamiinin tai foolihapon puutos https://www.terveyskirjasto.fi/terveyskirjasto/tk.koti?p_artikkeli=dlk00788&p_hakusana=b12 

Terveyskirjasto health library: B12-vitamiini, transkobalamiini II:een situoutunut (S-B12-TC2) https://www.terveyskirjasto.fi/terveyskirjasto/tk.koti?p_artikkeli=snk99003&p_hakusana=b12 

Terveyskirjasto health library: B12-vitamiini (S-B12-Vit) https://www.terveyskirjasto.fi/dlk01300/vitamiinit?q=B-vitamiini#s10

Lab tests online: Vitamin B12 and folate deficiency https://labtestsonline.org.uk/conditions/vitamin-b12-and-folate-deficiency 

Vitamin B12 is particularly necessary for the formation of red blood cells and, together with folic acid, DNA. It also supports the functioning of the brain and nervous system, and it is involved in carbohydrate and protein metabolism. 

We get vitamin B12 from products of animal origin, such as liver, fish, eggs, meat, and dairy products. Stomach cells produce a carrier protein called intrinsic factor (IF), to which vitamin B12 binds and with which it is absorbed in the small intestine. From the small intestine, vitamin B12 continues its journey through the bloodstream to the tissues, again bound to the carrier protein.  

The vitamin B12 blood test indicates the total concentration of vitamin B12 in the body. A vitamin B12 sufficiency in the body, however, is more accurately indicated by the test of active vitamin B12 (S-B12-TC2). The abbreviation “TC” refers to the transcobalamin in the vitamin B12 carrier protein. 

Vitamin B12 deficiency is primarily a concern of the elderly. One in ten Finns aged over 65 have been found to suffer from vitamin B12 deficiency. It is less common among younger people. Vitamin B12 deficiency is easier to prevent than treat. 

## When is a good time to measure vitamin B12 levels?  

Often, the need to examine the concentration of vitamin B12 arises in connection with the nervous system or anaemia with elevated red blood cell volume (E-MCV).  

It is a good time to have the test done if you experience the following symptoms, which are possibly caused by vitamin B12 deficiency: 

- Muscle weakness 
- Sensory disturbances 
- Memory disturbances 
- Pain in the upper abdomen 
- Depression 
- Disorientation, memory loss 
- Dizziness, fatigue, weakness 
- Paleness 
- Fast heart rate 
- Shortness of breath 

Less common symptoms include: 

- Tongue infection 
- Weight loss 
- Yellowness of the skin  

## What does a vitamin B12 test measure? 

The body stores vitamin B12 in the liver for approximately 3–5 years, so it can take months, even years, before the symptoms suggesting vitamin B12 deficiency occur. On the other hand, children have not yet developed a stock of vitamin B12, so vitamin B12 deficiency manifests itself earlier.  

Active vitamin B12

Vitamin B12 is needed in the production of red blood cells and the functioning of the nervous system.

Normally, the result is: 

- Women  ≥ 18 y:	13-150 µg/l
- Girls 14-17 y: 12-152 µg/l 

- Men ≥ 18 y: 30-400 µg/l
- Boys 16-17 y: 25-386 µg/l

Generally speaking, iron deficiency is diagnosed if the ferritin levels fall below 30 µg/l. Therefore, iron deficiency may exist even if the results of the ferritin test fall within the reference values. A value exceeding 100 µg/l usually excludes the possibility of iron deficiency anaemia. 

So far, only one reason has been discovered for decreasing levels of ferritin: iron deficiency and depleted iron reserves. Ferritin levels usually fluctuate from one day to the next and according to the menstrual cycle. During pregnancy, the body produces more red cells, which consumes some of the iron reserves and may cause the ferritin levels to drop. Contraceptive pills, on the other hand, may increase the ferritin levels by improving the absorption of iron from the intestine. 

Strong inflammation or tissue damage often considerably increases the levels of various proteins in the blood. These responsive proteins are called acute-phase proteins. Ferritin is one of the acute-phase proteins, which is why the lower limit of ferritin is higher, up to 70 µg/l, in connection with inflammation, liver diseases and cancer. 

The reference values of this examination have changed 6.10.2022. You will find your own result's reference values from My LOUNA in touch with the graph.
Read [more](https://lounalab.fi/article/miten-suhtautua-laboratoriotutkimusten-tuloksiin-ja-milloin-tulos-on) about defining reference values. 

Please contact your physician or other healthcare professional if you suspect an illness or need help interpreting the results.


- Excess weight resulting in fatty liver disease 
- Regular use of alcohol resulting in liver damage 
- Acute or chronic inflammation 
- Tumour 
- Some rare forms of anaemia 
- Liver damage, for example as a result of hepatitis or obstructed bile ducts 
- Recurring blood transfusions 
- Hereditary build-up of iron, also known as haemochromatosis 

The most common reason for a low ferritin value is iron deficiency anaemia that may be the result of: 

- Continuous, slow bleeding in the intestine due to a gastrointestinal or duodenal ulcer or haemorrhoids, for example 
- Heavy menstruation 
- Insufficient iron in diet  
- Pregnancy 
- Iron malabsorption due to coeliac disease, for example 
- Sudden bleeding, causing the ferritin levels to drop within 1–2 weeks 

- Complete blood count (CBC), shows the number of red and white blood cells, number of platelets and cell type (3696 B-TVK) 
- Transferrin receptor, soluble, carries iron into cells and tissues (1949 S -TfR) 
- All cells in the body need iron (2566 fS-Fe) 

SYNLAB test list: Ferritin (1395 S-Ferrit)
https://www.yml.fi/tuotekuvaus_show.php?tuotenro=126

Terveyskirjasto health library: Ferritin (P-Ferrit) 

EBM Guidelines: Iron deficiency anaemia 

All cells in the body need iron (S-Fe). The majority, approximately 70%, of the iron is needed for producing the haemoglobin in red blood cells. In the bloodstream, iron is transported bound to a transport protein called transferrin, from which it passes to mitochondria, which supply cellular energy. Excess iron, on the other hand, is stored as ferritin (S-Ferrit). 

Iron deficiency is quite common, especially among women. Their iron intake easily remains below recommendations, and women of fertile age also lose iron with menstrual periods, for example. 

## When should ferritin be measured? 

Lack of strength, paleness, headache, humming in the ears, elevated heart rate and the tendency to get out of breath and grow fatigued may be signs of iron deficiency or anaemia. Tongue pain, pain when swallowing and brittle fingernails may also indicate an iron deficiency. Gastric or intestinal bleeding may result in dark or bloody stool. 

Mild anaemia and iron deficiency is sometimes difficult to notice on one’s own. If the condition develops slowly, the body is able to adapt to it. Occasionally, iron deficiency is diagnosed by chance in blood tests. 

Iron deficiency is considerably more common in women. In men, iron deficiency is quite rare. 

The body can also accumulate excessive amounts of iron. This can be caused by a hereditary build-up of iron known as haemochromatosis. Its symptoms include strong fatigue, weakened libido, impaired hair growth, diabetes, joint symptoms and darkening of the skin.  

## What does a ferritin test measure? 

The test is used to examine the body’s iron reserves. Anaemia, however, is diagnosed with a haemoglobin test instead of a ferritin test. Testing ferritin helps detect early stages of anaemia. This can help prevent the development of anaemia.  

The most important iron reserves of the body are located in the liver, but there are also reserves in the spleen, bone marrow and muscles. Ferritin can be measured from a blood test as there are always low amounts of ferritin in our bloodstream.  


Ferritin

Ferritin is a measure of iron stores. Low levels of ferritin may be indicated by, for example, fatigue, weakness, and a general decrease in performance.

Ferritin measurement (S-Ferrit) 26,50 €

Ferritin indicates the status of the iron reserves

The LOUNA Iron Levels test package is designed to measure the important iron levels that affect your well-being. Anaemia caused by lack of iron is a common cause of fatigue and the deterioration of the general condition. The Iron Levels test package is an easy way to discover the iron levels in your body, and you can use the results to make the correct choices related to food, for example. 

The Iron Levels test package includes a complete blood count, and measurements of reticulocytes, CRP and ferritin.

Discovering how your body is doing brings you peace of mind and provides you with the tools to make better choices and look after yourself more holistically.  


Iron Levels

Iron Levels test package is designed to measure the important iron levels that affect your well-being.  Package is an easy way to discover the iron levels in your body, and you can use the results to make the correct choices related to food, for example. 

Iron Levels package 38 €

The LOUNA Iron Levels test package is designed to measure the important iron levels that affect your well-being.  The test package includes e.g. measurement of ferritin, CRP and reticulocytes..

The LOUNA Man’s Health Values package measures the blood counts that particularly affect the well-being of men’s bodies. 

The examinations included in the package provide information on the state of the body and help you make the right choices to avoid health problems pre-emptively.
The examinations included in the package provide information on, for example, kidney, liver, and thyroid function. The package includes the measurement of cholesterol levels, which provide important information on the potential risks of cardiovascular diseases. 

Included in the Man’s Health Values package are measurements important to men, including testosterone and vitamin B12 levels. The package also includes data on long-term levels of blood sugar, cholesterol, iron, and vitamin D. 

In order to follow up on the well-being of your body, and to prevent potential health problems, we recommend ordering the Man’s Health Values package regularly. 


Man’s Health Values

Man’s Health Values package measures the blood counts that particularly affect the well-being of men’s bodies. The examinations included provide information on the state of the body and help you make the right choices to avoid health problems pre-emptively

Man’s Health Values package 136 €

The LOUNA Man’s Health Values package measures the blood counts that particularly affect the well-being of men’s bodies. Package measures for example testosterone and PSA.

The LOUNA Woman’s Health Values package measures the blood counts that particularly affect the well-being of women’s bodies. 

The examinations included in the package provide valuable information on, for example, kidney, liver, and thyroid function. The package also includes a measurement of cholesterol levels, which provide information on the potential risks of cardiovascular diseases. 

The Woman’s Health Values package also examines the levels of vitamin B12 and folate, which are important for women. Vitamin B12 and folate are essential in ensuring, for example, adequate red blood cell production. Any potential infections, changes in hormone levels, and skeletal metabolic disorders are also examined as part of the package. It is advisable to follow up on these levels with age.

The package also includes measurements of the so-called storage iron (ferritin), vitamin D, and fasting blood sugar levels.

To ensure you are aware of all the levels that affect your well-being now and in the future, we recommend ordering the Woman’s Health Values package regularly. 


Woman’s Health Values

The LOUNA Woman’s Health Valuess package measures the blood counts that particularly affect the well-being of women’s bodies.

Woman’s Health Values package 136 €

Men’s Fitness Values Extensive

 The 14 studies included in the Men's Fitness Values ​​Extensive Package tell you if your body is in good condition or if something still requires concentration or professional help.

The Health Values package provides you with an exact, in-depth overview of your well-being. The purpose of the package is to support well-being and a balanced, active lifestyle. It is also a useful tool when you are making changes to your lifestyle.

## Thorough health examination by laboratory tests

The LOUNA Health Values package includes a blood count, which provides a basis for your body’s overall well-being, the strength of your immune system, and your kidneys, liver, and thyroid. Additionally, the blood count provides information on the potential risk of cardiovascular diseases. The Health Values package also includes data on long-term levels of blood sugar, cholesterol, iron, and vitamin D.

Long-term blood sugar levels provide a good impression of the long-term glucose balance of your body. If you want to follow up on your daily counts, a fasting plasma glucose (fP-Gluk) sample should also be taken. This sample requires fasting before the sampling.

In order to follow up on the development of your well-being most efficiently, we recommend you order the Health Values package every one or two years.

## Preparing for the laboratory tests

The tests in this package don't require fasting, but TSH is recommended to be taken before 12 o'clock.


Health Values

With the Health Values ​​package, you get an accurate view of your well-being. Comprehensive laboratory test package without a doctor's referral. Check it out and make an appointment.

Health Values package

The Health Values package provides you with an exact, in-depth overview of your well-being.

Iron Levels

Tests included

Blood count

Iron

Vitamins

Preparation

Fasting is required