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444337 tn?1428073510

Elevated Ferritin levels

Hi all,

I had some EOT (12 weeks Harvoni) labs done recently, and for the first time, they included a Ferritin level test. The result was 670 and the high end of normal is 300. It may be attributed to the mild anemia from chronic kidney disease or my impaired liver. Iron level was within the normal range as well as TIBC and Transferrin saturation %.

My doctor (nephrologist) didn't seem concerned with it but I'd like to get it down into the normal level, if possible. Us folks with liver disease are watching our iron intake (or should be) to begin with and I've done some due diligence regarding how to reduce elevated Ferritin levels without medication, but I'm curious as to whether anyone in the Community has had measurable success with any one approach over the other.

Before I go down the path of experimentation, I'd like to get some firsthand results from real people.

Any and all input is appreciated.

Marc

Best wishes to all in our amazing Community!
4 Responses
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444337 tn?1428073510
Thanks to you both for the information. I did find hemochromatosis in my research and kind of blew it off for more likely causes due to my kidney and liver problems. I'll be sure to ask for those labs when I see my hepatologist.

Good info about the phlebotomy. I'll inquire about that as well.

Again, thank you and my best to you both.
Helpful - 0
Avatar universal
Hello and congratulations on completing Harvoni tx .

As Jules mentioned above , it would be a good idea to get checked for hemochromatosis.

But ... its also normal ( according to my hepatologist ) for people with hcv to have higher ferritin levels .

In my own case i had levels of about 700 , and my Iron saturation was 70% .
I am geno 1a ( 0-1 fibrosis ) and am waiting for tx with harvoni .

I went ahead and got 3 phlebotomies ( blood letting )  done and everything came back to normal .

Now i go once every 6-8 months and get a phlebotomy done and my numbers stay under control .

I was checked for hemochromatosis and do not have it ..

I hope the above helps . but please do check and speak to your doctor before doing this incase u plan too ..

Best wishes and warm regards .
Helpful - 0
Avatar universal
Correction...you should be tested for the gene
Helpful - 0
Avatar universal
Just because your ferritin levels are elevated doesn't mean you shouldn't be tested for hemochromatosis.  It's a genetic disorder most people don't know they have,  ferritin is stored in the liver and leaked into the blood.which is an indication of liver necrosis.  You should be tested for the gene to see if you inherited it.  If the ferritin levels continue you may need regular phlebotomies to reduce the levels.

Best jules
Helpful - 0
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