Folate in Plasma (Mass Concentration)
This test measures the amount of folate, a B vitamin essential for healthy cell growth and DNA repair, in your blood plasma.
["Folate helps prevent birth defects and supports red blood cell production."]
Key facts at a glance
- LOINC
- 1387-0
- Short code
- FCA Fract 3h p 300 ug CLN PO Plas-mCnc
- Synonyms
- FCA Fract 3h p 300 ug CLN PO Plas-mCnc
- Category
- chemistry
- Sample
- plasma
- Container
- Lavender-top (EDTA) or Green-top (Heparin)
- Units
- N/A
- Ref low
- 80
- Ref high
- 200
- Critical range
- 20 N/A – 400 N/A
- Fasting
- false
- Population
- adult
- Sex
- all
- Age range
- 18–65 years
- CPT
- 84436
- SNOMED
- 302346007
- Specimen volume
- 5 mL
- Stability
- Room temperature: 4h, Refrigerated: 24h, Frozen: 7d
- Hemolysis max
- 500
- Lipemia max
- 1000
- Icterus max
- 500
- TAT
- 4–24 hours
- Order
- routine
Why Is This Test Done?
Your doctor may order this test to check for folate deficiency, which can cause anemia, neurological issues, or increase the risk of certain cancers. It’s also used in pregnancy to screen for neural tube defects in a fetus or to monitor folate levels in people with conditions like alcoholism or malabsorption disorders.
What to Expect Before the Test
No special preparation is needed unless instructed. You may be asked to fast for 8–12 hours before the test if it involves drawing blood from a vein.
What Happens During the Test?
A healthcare provider will insert a small needle into your arm to draw blood into a tube. The process usually takes a few minutes, and you may feel a brief pinch. The blood is then sent to a lab for analysis.
What Are Possible Results?
Results are compared to a reference range specific to your age, sex, and health status. Low levels may indicate deficiency, while high levels could signal conditions like liver disease or certain medications.
Reference range
Adult: 80-200 ng/dLN/A
Take your thyroid medication after the blood draw if applicable. No fasting required.
Clinical interpretation
How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.
Low folate levels can lead to anemia, fatigue, or cognitive issues. In pregnancy, deficiency is linked to birth defects. High levels may require further evaluation for underlying conditions like kidney disease or medication use. Always discuss results with your doctor for personalized guidance.
Short name
Plasma Folate Level
Frequently asked questions
What causes low folate levels?
What symptoms might I experience if my folate is low?
Can folate levels change with diet?
Sources
- 1
- 2Lab Tests OnlineSource
- 3
Click any link to access the full source. PubMed Central (PMC) links provide free full-text access.
This information is for educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment.
This content is for general informational and educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the guidance of a qualified healthcare provider with any questions you have about a medical condition, and never disregard professional medical advice or delay seeking it because of something you read here.
If you think you may have a medical emergency, call your local emergency number or go to the nearest emergency department immediately.
Medically reviewed by WellAlly Editorial Team Last reviewed August 17, 2026. · Read our editorial policy