Changes in serum ferritin and other factors associated with iron metabolism during chronic hyperbaric exposure.

Factors related to iron metabolism were determined in 20 United States Navy divers during 8 d of air saturation-excursion hyperbaric exposures. During these simulated dives progressive and correlated increases in serum ferritin and iron occurred. No significant changes were observed in bilirubin, hemoglobin, ceruloplasmin, transferrin, copper, or total iron binding capacity. The significance of the increased serum ferritin is discussed in relation to bone marrow damage and early detection of aseptic bone necrosis.