A ferritin blood test measures the amount of ferritin, a protein that stores iron in your body. This test helps assess your body's iron levels and is crucial for diagnosing conditions related to iron deficiency or overload. Low ferritin levels may indicate iron deficiency anemia, while high levels can point to conditions such as hemochromatosis or chronic inflammation. Understanding ferritin levels is essential for evaluating overall health and managing disorders that affect iron balance, making this test a key diagnostic tool in both routine and specialized care.

The C-peptide test measures the amount of C-peptide in your blood, a substance released alongside insulin. It is essential for distinguishing between type 1 and type 2 diabetes. In type 1 diabetes, C-peptide levels are low or absent because the pancreas produces little or no insulin. In type 2 diabetes, C-peptide levels are typically normal or high due to insulin resistance. By interpreting C-peptide levels, healthcare providers can better understand the type of diabetes a patient has, monitor pancreatic function, and guide treatment plans more effectively.

A serum iron test measures the amount of iron in your blood, which is essential for oxygen transport and energy production. Normal serum iron levels range from 60 to 170 micrograms per deciliter (mcg/dL) for adults. Low iron levels can indicate iron deficiency, often leading to anemia, fatigue, and weakness. On the other hand, high iron levels may indicate iron overload conditions like hemochromatosis, which can damage the liver, heart, and other organs. Interpreting these results helps doctors manage conditions related to iron metabolism and guide treatment plans for maintaining healthy iron levels.

The BNP (B-type Natriuretic Peptide) blood test measures the levels of BNP, a hormone produced by the heart. Elevated BNP levels are often a sign of heart failure, as this hormone is released when the heart struggles to pump blood efficiently. The test is primarily used to diagnose and monitor heart failure, helping doctors assess its severity and guide treatment decisions. A BNP test can also help differentiate heart failure from other conditions causing similar symptoms, like shortness of breath or swelling. Normal BNP levels vary, but higher levels generally indicate worsening heart function.