A Folate (Serum) blood test measures the level of folate (vitamin B9) in your blood. Folate is crucial for DNA synthesis, red blood cell production, and overall cellular growth and function. Monitoring folate levels can help diagnose deficiencies that could lead to various health issues.

Why It’s Done

  • Diagnose Folate Deficiency: Symptoms include fatigue, weakness, pale skin, and irritability.
  • Monitor Chronic Conditions: Such as gastrointestinal diseases (e.g., celiac disease, Crohn’s disease) that affect nutrient absorption.
  • Assess Nutritional Status: Especially in individuals with poor diet, alcoholism, or malabsorption issues.
  • Evaluate Anemia: Folate deficiency can lead to megaloblastic anemia, characterized by the production of abnormally large red blood cells.
  • Pregnancy Monitoring: Adequate folate levels are essential for fetal development and preventing neural tube defects.

Preparation

  • Fasting: Generally, fasting is not required unless specified by your healthcare provider.
  • Medications: Inform your healthcare provider about any medications or supplements you are taking, as some can affect folate levels.

Procedure

  1. Blood Sample Collection: A healthcare professional will draw a blood sample from a vein in your arm.
  2. Laboratory Analysis: The blood sample is sent to a lab where the level of folate is measured.

Normal Range

  • Serum Folate Levels: Typically range from 2.7 to 17.0 nanograms per millilitre (ng/mL), but this can vary slightly depending on the laboratory.

Follow-Up

  • Abnormal Results: May require additional tests or changes in diet, medication, or lifestyle. Your healthcare provider will guide you on the necessary steps.
  • Regular Monitoring: Essential for individuals with conditions affecting folate levels, such as gastrointestinal diseases or those on medications that impact folate metabolism.

Factors Affecting Folate Levels

  • Diet: Foods rich in folate include leafy green vegetables, legumes, nuts, seeds, and fortified grains.
  • Medications: Some medications can interfere with folate metabolism or absorption, including certain anticonvulsants, methotrexate, and sulfasalazine.
  • Medical Conditions: Conditions like celiac disease, Crohn’s disease, and pernicious anemia can alter folate levels.

Importance of Folate

  • DNA Synthesis and Repair: Crucial for cell division and the synthesis of DNA.
  • Red Blood Cell Production: Essential for the formation and maturation of red blood cells.
  • Fetal Development: Adequate folate levels are critical during pregnancy to prevent neural tube defects in the developing fetus.
  • Homocysteine Metabolism: Helps break down homocysteine, an amino acid that can be harmful at high levels, reducing the risk of cardiovascular diseases.

Consult your healthcare provider if you experience symptoms of folate deficiency or if you have a condition that could affect folate balance. Regular testing and proper management can help maintain optimal health.

Results – 1 day from Laboratory receiving sample

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