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High serum ferritin post partum: an acute phase reaction
K Haram1, S Sandberg, M Ulstein
1Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of Bergen, Haukeland University Hospital, Norway.
Acta Obstetricia Et Gynecologica Scandinavica
|January 1, 1993
Summary
Postpartum serum ferritin (S-ferritin) levels significantly increase after delivery. This rise is likely due to an acute phase reaction, indicated by elevated S-orosomucoid and blood leucocyte counts.
Area of Science:
- Biochemistry
- Clinical Medicine
- Immunology
Background:
- Previous observations noted increased serum ferritin levels postpartum.
- Understanding the cause of postpartum hyperferritinemia is crucial for clinical interpretation.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the underlying cause of elevated serum ferritin observed after childbirth.
- To determine if the postpartum increase in S-ferritin is associated with an acute phase response.
Main Methods:
- Blood samples were collected from 21 pregnant women during late pregnancy and at two postpartum time points.
- Analyzed parameters included hemoglobin, leucocytes, serum ferritin, erythrocyte protoporphyrin, and serum orosomucoid.
Main Results:
- Serum ferritin levels rose from 12.1 µg/L in late pregnancy to 30.1 µg/L postpartum.
- Concurrent increases in serum orosomucoid and blood leucocyte counts were observed.
Conclusions:
- The postpartum surge in serum ferritin is likely a manifestation of the acute phase reaction.
- Elevated S-ferritin postpartum can be attributed to inflammatory processes rather than iron overload.