What can the ferritin/CRP ratio tell you?
The ratio helps separate two major reasons for elevated ferritin:
Considering CRP alongside ferritin improves interpretation in settings like metabolic syndrome, fatty liver disease, chronic infection, or autoimmune conditions.
What is being tested?
Ferritin: A protein complex that stores iron in tissues. Serum ferritin correlates with iron stores but also rises with inflammation, liver disease, or malignancy.
C‑Reactive Protein (CRP): An acute‑phase protein produced by the liver in response to inflammation. Elevated CRP indicates ongoing inflammatory activity.
Ferritin/CRP Ratio Calculation
Ferritin/CRP Ratio = Ferritin (ng/mL) ÷ CRP (mg/L)
Interpreting ferritin in context with CRP helps distinguish true iron overload (high ferritin with low CRP) from inflammation‑related ferritin elevation (high ferritin with high CRP).
Where is the ferritin/CRP ratio typically included?
This ratio is not auto‑reported; it’s calculated from standard blood tests your provider orders. It’s commonly used in:
Iron studies, which can assess iron deficiency vs. overload
Inflammation panels, which can identify systemic inflammation
High ferritin workup, which also includes HFE genetic testing and liver enzymes to investigate haemochromatosis and chronic inflammatory conditions
The ferritin/CRP ratio is included as part of lab testing through Hers, which helps you understand what’s really going on in your body and either address or get ahead of problem areas with a tailored action plan.
Who should get a ferritin/CRP ratio?
Your provider may want to know this ratio if you have signs or risk factors for iron overload or chronic inflammation:
Possible Signs of Iron Overload (Haemochromatosis):
Possible Signs of Chronic Inflammation:
