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Folate and Red Blood Cell (RBC) Mean Corpuscular Volume (MCV) with Confirmation

Published: August 9, 2026Updated: August 17, 2026

This test measures your body’s folate levels and evaluates the size of your red blood cells to check for deficiencies or other blood-related conditions.

Quick summary

["Folate and RBC size help diagnose potential deficiencies or blood disorders."]

Medically reviewed by WellAlly Editorial TeamLast reviewed August 17, 2026Editorial policy

Key facts at a glance

LOINC
14731-4
Short code
Folate RBC-sCnc
Synonyms
Folate RBC-sCnc
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 Folate Matters

Folate, also called vitamin B9, is essential for making healthy red blood cells and DNA. Low levels can lead to anemia or other health issues. Your doctor may order this test if you have symptoms like fatigue, weakness, or pale skin.

How Red Blood Cell Size is Evaluated

The mean corpuscular volume (MCV) measures the average size of your red blood cells. Low MCV often suggests folate deficiency, but it can also be caused by other conditions like iron deficiency or chronic illness. This test helps pinpoint the cause.

How the Test Works

Your blood sample is analyzed to measure folate concentration and RBC size. The results help determine if you have a deficiency or other blood-related problems that need attention.

What the Results Mean

Low folate or abnormal RBC sizes may indicate a need for supplements or further testing. High levels might not cause immediate concerns but could be monitored by your doctor.

Reference range

Adult males: 4.2-5.9; Females: 3.8-5.1 x 10^12/LN/A

Specimen: whole-blood

No special preparation required. Stay well hydrated.

Clinical interpretation

How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.

◆Associated findings1

Short name

Folate & MCV with Confirmation

Frequently asked questions

What causes low folate levels?
Low folate can result from poor diet (low intake of leafy greens, beans, and fortified foods), alcohol use, certain medications, or conditions like malabsorption. Pregnancy also increases folate needs.
Can an MCV test alone tell me if I have anemia?
No. While low MCV often suggests anemia, it can also be caused by other factors like iron deficiency or chronic kidney disease. Folate levels and other blood tests are needed for a full diagnosis.
Do I need to prepare for this test?
No special preparation is needed. If you’re taking folate supplements, your doctor may advise stopping temporarily to avoid misleading results.
  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 17, 2026. · Read our editorial policy