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Folic Acid in Plasma (24-Hour Urinary Excretion)

Published: August 9, 2026Updated: August 16, 2026

This test measures how much folic acid your body excretes in urine over 24 hours. It helps assess folate status and absorption, especially in conditions like malabsorption or dietary deficiencies.

Quick summary

["Your urinary folic acid levels can reveal how well your body absorbs this essential vitamin."]

Medically reviewed by WellAlly Editorial TeamLast reviewed August 16, 2026Editorial policy

Key facts at a glance

LOINC
1388-8
Short code
FCA Fract pre 300 ug CLN PO Plas-mCnc
Synonyms
FCA Fract pre 300 ug CLN PO Plas-mCnc
Category
chemistry
Sample
plasma
Container
Lavender-top (EDTA) or Green-top (Heparin)
Units
N/A
Fasting
false
Population
adult
Sex
all
Age range
18–65 years
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 This Test Is Done

Doctors may order this test if you have symptoms like fatigue, anemia, or neurological issues that could be linked to folate deficiency. It’s also used in research or monitoring certain medical conditions where folate metabolism is important.

What to Expect Before the Test

No special preparation is needed. Your urine will be collected over a full 24-hour period, typically starting after a void and ending after the next morning’s void. Follow your healthcare provider’s instructions for accurate results.

How the Test Works

Your urine is collected and analyzed for folic acid content using a sensitive laboratory method to measure how much is excreted daily.

What the Results Mean

Results help determine if your body is absorbing folate properly. Low levels may indicate deficiencies or malabsorption, while normal or high levels suggest adequate intake and metabolism.

Clinical interpretation

How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.

Clinical Significance: Folate plays a critical role in red blood cell production, DNA synthesis, and preventing birth defects. Abnormal urinary folate excretion can signal underlying issues like alcoholism, kidney disease, or certain gastrointestinal disorders.

Short name

24-Hour Urinary Folic Acid

Frequently asked questions

What causes a low urinary folate result?
Low urinary folate may be due to poor diet, alcohol use, malabsorption (e.g., celiac disease), kidney problems, or certain medications. Your doctor may also check for other signs of deficiency.
What does a high urinary folate result indicate?
High urinary folate could suggest overconsumption of folate supplements, kidney issues, or conditions that increase folate excretion. It’s less common but warrants discussion with your healthcare provider.
How often should I get this test?
Your doctor will decide based on your symptoms, medical history, and other test results. Routine screening for urinary folate is not standard unless indicated for specific conditions.
  1. 1
    MedlinePlus — Laboratory TestsSource
  2. 2
    Lab Tests OnlineSource
  3. 3
    Mayo Clinic — Tests & ProceduresSource

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.

Medical Disclaimer

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 16, 2026. · Read our editorial policy