Folate, Serum
Use
The Folate, Serum test is used for the investigation of suspected folate deficiency. It measures the level of folate in the blood, which is crucial for DNA synthesis and repair. Folate deficiency can result in macrocytosis and megaloblastic anemia and is common in pregnant women, alcoholics, and those with inadequate dietary intake. Low folate levels can also be observed in individuals with neuropsychiatric disorders, spontaneous abortions, and fetuses with neural tube defects.
Special Instructions
Fasting for 8 hours is required prior to specimen collection. The test should not be ordered for patients who have recently received methotrexate or other folic acid antagonists. If not ordering electronically, the Benign Hematology Test Request Form should be completed and sent with the specimen.
Limitations
Serum folate is a relatively nonspecific test; low levels may occur in the absence of deficiency, and normal levels may be seen in macrocytic anemia, dementia, and pregnancy disorders. Nonfasting specimens can yield falsely elevated results. Folates other than N-(5)-methyltetrahydrofolate and folic acid antagonists may be present in serum and are also measured by this method. Anti-animal antibodies in patients exposed to animal antigens may interfere with assay reagents, resulting in unreliable results.
FDA ApprovedNew York Approved
Methodology
Immunoassay (CLIA)
Biomarkers
LOINC Codes
- 2284-8
- 2284-8
Result Turnaround Time
1-3 days
Related Documents
For more information, please review the documents below
Specimen
Serum
Volume
0.6 mL
Minimum Volume
0.5 mL
Container
Plastic vial
Collection Instructions
Serum gel tubes should be centrifuged within 2 hours of collection. Red-top tubes should be centrifuged, and the serum aliquoted into a plastic vial within 2 hours of collection.
Patient Preparation
Fasting for 8 hours is required.
Causes for Rejection
Gross hemolysis
Stability Requirements
| Temperature | Period |
|---|---|
| Refrigerated | 7 days |
| Frozen | 90 days |