Accessibility links
|
|
Folate
(a.k.a Folic acid)
minimum sample volume required ~ 5ml
Test Code: FOL
Tube type: SST
Other acceptable tube types
Lithium heparin (pale green)
Special instructions
None
Time limit for add on
48 hours post collection.
Minimum retesting interval
Test should not be repeated within 42 days.
Reference range
3 - 20
Units
µg/L
Linked to
Haematinics
Turnaround Time
2
days
Department: Biochemistry
Clinical Application
NOTE: Change in method and reference ranges from 10/01/2023.
Folate is a water soluble B vitamin (also known as Vitamin B9), which occurs naturally in foods such as dark green leafy vegetables, fruits, nuts, beans, peas, eggs, dairy products, meat , poultry and grains. Foods such as breads, cereals and flours are frequently fortified with folic acid.
Adequate supply of folate is essential for cell division and growth, and deficiency particularly affects production of red blood cells (leading to megaloblastic anaemia) and the development of the fetus (leading to neural tube defects).
At levels 3.0 - 4.5 ug/L, consider other causes of macrocytosis but if clinical suspicion remains high, consider a trial of therapy after B12 levels have been investigated. Monitor FBC/MCV for response.
Webpage updated: December 2024
