Serum Folate (Vitamin B9)

The Folate Test is indicated for a variety of people who may be at risk for folate deficiency or related conditions. These include

- Pregnant women: Folate is essential for fetal development, and pregnant women are often advised to take folic acid supplements to prevent birth defects. The folate test can help ensure that a pregnant woman has adequate folate levels.
- People with poor diets: Folate is found in many foods, including green leafy vegetables, fruits, and fortified cereals. People who do not eat a balanced diet may be at risk for folate deficiency.
- People with malabsorption syndromes: Certain medical conditions, such as celiac disease or inflammatory bowel disease (IBD), can interfere with the body's ability to absorb nutrients, including folate.
- People taking certain medications: Some medicines, such as methotrexate or phenytoin, can decrease folate levels in the body.
- People with anemia or other symptoms of folate deficiency: Symptoms of folate deficiency include weakness, fatigue, shortness of breath, and pale skin. The folate test can help diagnose these symptoms and determine if they are caused by low folate levels.

It is important to note that not everyone needs to be tested for folate levels. In general, healthcare providers will order the test if there is a specific reason to suspect that a patient may have low folate levels. If you are not sure whether you need to be tested for folate levels, talk to your healthcare provider.

The results of a folate test are usually reported as a numerical value in nanograms per milliliter (ng/mL) or nanomoles per liter (nmol/L). The normal range for folate levels may vary depending on the laboratory performing the test, but in general, a normal range for serum folate is between 2.7 and 17.0 ng/mL (6.2 and 38.7 nmol/L), while a normal range for red blood cell folate is between 140 and 628 ng/mL (317 and 1423 nmol/L).

If the results of a folate test are outside the normal range, it may indicate that the patient has a folate deficiency or related condition. However, it is important to note that abnormal results do not necessarily mean there is a problem, as there are many reasons why folate levels may be low or high.

Interpretation of test results requires clinical judgment by a healthcare provider, taking into account the patient's medical history, symptoms, and other factors. In general:

- Low serum or red blood cell folate levels may indicate folate deficiency.
- High serum or red blood cell folate levels are generally not considered problematic and may be due to recent folic acid supplementation.
- Abnormal results should be followed up with additional testing to confirm the diagnosis and determine appropriate treatment.

You should be aware that interpretation of test results requires clinical judgment by a healthcare provider, taking into account the patient's medical history, symptoms, and other factors. Patients should discuss their test results with their healthcare provider to ensure accurate interpretation and appropriate follow-up.