Folate in Red Blood Cells (RBC) Mass Concentration
This test measures the amount of folate (a B vitamin) stored in your red blood cells. Folate is important for cell growth and DNA repair, and low levels may indicate a deficiency.
["Check if your red blood cells have enough folate to support your body’s needs."]
Key facts at a glance
- LOINC
- 2283-0
- Short code
- Folate RBC-mCnc
- Synonyms
- Folate RBC-mCnc
- Category
- chemistry
- Sample
- whole-blood
- Container
- Lavender-top (EDTA)
- Units
- N/A
- Ref low
- 4.2
- Ref high
- 5.9
- Critical range
- 2 N/A – 7 N/A
- Fasting
- false
- Population
- adult
- Sex
- all
- Age range
- 18–65 years
- CPT
- 85041
- SNOMED
- 900000000000003001
- Specimen volume
- 3 mL
- Stability
- Room temperature: 4h, Refrigerated: 24h
- Hemolysis max
- 0
- Lipemia max
- 0
- Icterus max
- 0
- TAT
- 4–24 hours
- Order
- routine
Why Is This Test Done?
Your healthcare provider may order this test if you have symptoms like fatigue, weakness, or unusual bruising, or if you have conditions like anemia, pregnancy, or certain medications that affect folate levels.
What to Expect Before the Test
No special preparation is needed. A small blood sample is taken from a vein in your arm. You may feel a slight pinch, but it usually doesn’t cause discomfort.
What the Results Mean
Results help determine if you have a folate deficiency or excess. Low levels may need supplements or dietary changes, while high levels may require further evaluation to rule out other conditions.
Common Causes of Low or High Folate Levels
Low folate can result from poor diet, alcohol use, certain medications, or conditions like malabsorption. High folate is less common but may occur with certain genetic disorders or excessive intake.
Reference range
Adult males: 4.2-5.9; Females: 3.8-5.1 x 10^12/LN/A
No special preparation required. Stay well hydrated.
Clinical interpretation
How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.
◆Associated findings1
Short name
RBC Folate Level
Frequently asked questions
Low RBC folate levels can cause megaloblastic anemia, where red blood cells are larger than normal and may not function properly. Over time, this can lead to fatigue, weakness, or neurological issues. Folate is also critical during pregnancy to prevent birth defects in the baby’s brain and spine.
How often should I get this test?
Can I take folate supplements before the 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 17, 2026. · Read our editorial policy