: Folate [Mass concentration] in Cerebrospinal fluid
: This test measures the amount of folate (vitamin B9) in cerebrospinal fluid, the fluid that surrounds the brain and spinal cord. It is usually ordered to help evaluate certain neurological or nutritional conditions.
[": A CSF folate test measures vitamin B9 levels in the fluid around the brain and spinal cord to support evaluation of selected neurological and nutritional disorders."]
Key facts at a glance
- LOINC
- 55859-3
- Short code
- Folate CSF-mCnc
- Synonyms
- Folate CSF-mCnc
- Category
- chemistry
- Sample
- csf
- Container
- Sterile tube
- Units
- N/A
- Ref low
- 2.7
- Ref high
- 17
- Fasting
- false
- Population
- adult
- Sex
- all
- Age range
- 18–65 years
- Specimen volume
- 1-2 mL
- Stability
- Immediate analysis required, Refrigerated: 1h
- Hemolysis max
- 200
- TAT
- 4–24 hours
- Order
- routine
: What Is Folate?
: Folate is a B vitamin found in foods such as leafy greens, beans, and fortified grains. The body uses it to make DNA and support normal cell growth, including cells of the nervous system.
: Why Measure Folate in CSF?
: Folate in cerebrospinal fluid can reflect the vitamin status of the central nervous system, which may differ from levels in the blood. Clinicians may order this test when investigating unexplained neurological symptoms or conditions associated with folate deficiency.
: How the Test Is Performed
: A cerebrospinal fluid sample is collected by lumbar puncture, a procedure in which a small amount of fluid is drawn from the lower back with a thin needle. The sample is then sent to the laboratory for analysis.
: Understanding Your Results
: Your result is interpreted together with your symptoms, medical history, and other tests. A low or high value may point to a nutritional or medical issue, but it does not by itself diagnose a condition. Ask your clinician what your result means for you.
Reference range
NCBI: Folate 2.7-17.0 ng/mLN/A
Fasting for 8-12 hours preferred for some tests. Inform about supplements you are taking.
Clinical interpretation
How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.
: CSF folate testing can help identify central nervous system folate deficiency, which has been associated with neurological problems. Because results depend on many factors and reference ranges vary by laboratory, findings should always be interpreted by a qualified clinician in the context of the full clinical picture.
Short name
: CSF folate
Frequently asked questions
: Do I need to fast before a CSF folate test?
: Is a lumbar puncture painful?
: Can I raise my CSF folate by taking supplements?
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