Folate (Serum) Concentration, Quantitative
This test measures the amount of folate, a type of B vitamin, in your blood serum. Folate is important for cell growth and red blood cell production.
["Your blood folate levels help assess your risk of deficiencies that could affect pregnancy, nerve function, or anemia."]
Key facts at a glance
- LOINC
- 39152-4
- Short code
- FFDM Brst Dx
- Synonyms
- FFDM Brst Dx
- Category
- chemistry
- Sample
- serum
- Container
- Red-top tube (SST)
- Units
- N/A
- Fasting
- false
- Population
- adult
- Sex
- all
- Age range
- 18–65 years
- Method
- mg-ffd
- 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 Might Be Ordered
Your healthcare provider may recommend this test if you have symptoms like fatigue, weakness, or unusual bruising, or if you’re at higher risk for folate deficiency (e.g., due to poor diet, pregnancy, or certain medications). It’s also used to monitor folate levels in people with conditions like alcoholism or certain cancers.
What to Expect Before the Test
No special preparation is needed, but you may be asked to fast for 8–12 hours before the draw if your lab uses a different protocol. Bring any medications or supplements you’re taking, as they can affect results.
How the Test Works
A small sample of blood is taken from a vein in your arm. The lab then measures folate levels using a sensitive immunoassay method to detect and quantify the vitamin in your serum.
What the Results Mean
Low levels may indicate a deficiency, which can cause health issues like anemia or birth defects in pregnancy. High levels might suggest overconsumption of folate supplements or certain medical conditions. Your provider will interpret results in the context of your overall health.
Clinical interpretation
How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.
Low folate levels are linked to megaloblastic anemia (large, immature red blood cells), neurological problems, or increased risk of certain cancers. During pregnancy, folate is critical for preventing neural tube defects in the baby. High levels may require further investigation to rule out causes like folate-rich foods, supplements, or rare genetic disorders.
Short name
Serum Folate
Frequently asked questions
What causes low folate levels?
Can folate supplements affect my test results?
How often should I get this test?
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 16, 2026. · Read our editorial policy