4203. Package #512.1 (Inflammation and Iron Deficiency Marker Panel)

Package No. 512.1 is a comprehensive laboratory test combining inflammatory markers (CRP, ESR, white blood cell count) and parameters assessing iron metabolism (ferritin, red blood cells, hemoglobin). It allows physicians to quickly determine whether a patient has inflammation or anemia, and to accurately interpret ferritin levels as a marker of iron deficiency, taking into account CRP levels (according to WHO recommendations).

Hemoglobin electrophoretic testing is also an important step in the differential diagnosis of anemias not explained by iron, vitamin B12, or folate deficiency.

This laboratory package combines four key tests that have high diagnostic value in the initial evaluation of patients with suspected anemia, chronic or acute inflammation, infections, and systemic diseases.

The package includes:

• Complete Blood Count (CBC, with differential) – assesses hemoglobin, red blood cell count, hematocrit, platelet count, and white blood cell count, as well as their composition. It is used to detect anemia, infections, inflammatory processes, and hematologic malignancies.
• Ferritin – the main iron storage protein in the body. Its level accurately reflects iron stores. Decreased ferritin levels are an early marker of iron deficiency anemia, even before low hemoglobin appears. Elevated ferritin levels can also be a marker of chronic inflammation or malignancy.
• C-reactive protein (CRP) is a highly sensitive marker of the acute phase of inflammation, elevated in bacterial infections, autoimmune diseases, and tissue damage. Its level changes earlier than ESR and allows for a more accurate assessment of inflammatory activity.
• ESR (erythrocyte sedimentation rate) is a non-specific, sensitive marker of inflammation, chronic infections, cancer, and autoimmune diseases.

When?

• When symptoms appear that may indicate iron deficiency anemia (fatigue, paleness, brittle nails, hair loss).
• To monitor the effectiveness of treatment for anemia or inflammatory diseases.
• In case of general malaise of unknown etiology, for a comprehensive examination.

Who?

• Individuals with diagnosed or suspected infectious or autoimmune inflammations.
• Pregnant women and women with heavy menstrual periods, for a preventive examination.

• Venous blood

In order to exclude factors that may affect the test results, we recommend to follow the preparation rules: