Prognostic and diagnostic roles of serum ferritin level in cancer

The ferritin level, a protein responsible for iron metabolism and storage, is a sensitive indicator of iron overload in various pathological conditions. In leukemia, ferritin levels increase with disease stages and can predict survival after transplantation. Leukemia-induced dysregulation of the ferroportin-hepcidin regulatory axis results in intracellular iron accumulation, activation of the reactive oxygen species (ROS)-related signaling pathway, and inhibition of hematopoiesis, leading to anemia and increased dependence on red blood cell transfusions, thereby disrupting the physiological cycle. Additionally, ferritin levels rise in other types of cancer, indicating its potential as a target for both diagnosis and treatment. Therefore, understanding the role of ferritin and iron metabolism in leukemia and other diseases is crucial in developing effective treatment strategies to enhance patient outcomes.