What could cause low ferritin levels (20) but normal iron saturation levels (35.1%)? This seems impossible.?

Question

I've had hypothyroidism for 8 months because my body is not responding well to a compounded T3/T4 medication. The extended hypothyroidism has negatively affected all of my blood counts, my kidney function, production of blood cells, & my liver function. An oncologist recently tested my ferritin and found it to be low, but my iron saturation is normal. How is that possible? I'm supplementing with an autoimmune balancing agent, iron (ferrous bisglycinate), B12 (10000mcg/day), B6 & Folic, & other condition-specific supplements. Any advice is greatly appreciated. Thanks very much!

? · Accepted Answer

You can easily have low ferritin and normal iron. You may find as the months go by, your iron saturation will drop and you can become anaemic. 

In addition, your kidney function will affect your iron saturation and red blood cells as well. If your kidney function is low or impaired in anyway, so is your ability to produce red blood cells. This will in turn affect your hgb levels, including your iron saturation. 

Ask your physician if ferrous gluconate would be a better supplement.

Anonymous · Answer

Yes. iron is needed to make red blood cells, AND muscle tissue. If you do not have enough iron you will feel weak. if you are VERY anemic, you may also fell constatnyl out-of-breath. You may also notice some problems that you are slow to heal. Taking iron tablets is the first response to this situation. Meanwhile, the doctor should having you take other tests to learn WHY you are anemic. Anemia can be a symptom of internal bleeding, kidney failure, or cancer.

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What could cause low ferritin levels (20) but normal iron saturation levels (35.1%)? This seems impossible.?

2 Answers