Serum ferritin in institutionalised elderly patients.

Serum ferritin was assessed in 101 patients (aged 63 to 93 years) in geriatric care unit. The mean value of serum ferritin 288.7 micrograms/l is higher with larger SD (280.9 micrograms/l) comparing to the younger age groups. There was a significant sex difference with higher values in men. The interpretation and biological significance of increased serum ferritin in elderly is discussed.