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Folate (Vitamin B9) in Serum

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

This test measures the amount of folate, a B vitamin essential for red blood cell production and DNA synthesis, in your blood serum.

Quick summary

["Folate levels help assess nutritional status and prevent certain birth defects."]

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

Key facts at a glance

LOINC
14209-1
Short code
F tular IgA Ser Ql
Synonyms
F tular IgA Ser Ql
Category
chemistry
Sample
serum
Container
Red-top tube (SST)
Units
N/A
Fasting
false
Population
adult
Sex
all
Age range
18–65 years
CPT
82784
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 Is This Test Done?

Your doctor may order a serum folate test to check if you have a deficiency, which can cause anemia, neurological issues, or complications during pregnancy. It’s also used to monitor folate levels in patients with conditions like alcoholism, malabsorption disorders, or certain medications that affect folate absorption.

What to Expect Before the Test

No special preparation is usually needed, but you may be asked to fast for 8–12 hours before the test if instructed by your healthcare provider. Bring any medications or supplements you’re taking, as they can influence results.

What Happens During the Test?

A healthcare professional will draw blood from a vein in your arm. The process is quick and typically causes only minor discomfort. The blood sample is then sent to a lab for analysis.

What the Results Mean

Results may indicate whether your folate levels are too low, normal, or too high. Low levels can signal dietary deficiencies, poor absorption, or underlying health conditions. High levels may occur with certain medications or genetic factors.

Clinical interpretation

How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.

◆Associated findings1

Short name

Serum Folate

Frequently asked questions

Is folate deficiency common?
Yes, folate deficiency can occur in people with poor diets, certain digestive disorders, heavy alcohol use, or those taking medications that interfere with folate metabolism. It’s especially critical during pregnancy to prevent neural tube defects in the baby.
Can folate levels change over time?
Yes, folate levels can fluctuate due to diet, medication use, or health conditions. Regular monitoring may be needed if you have a history of deficiency or certain chronic illnesses.
Does folate testing differ between serum and other specimens?
Serum folate testing is common, but results may vary slightly compared to plasma or red blood cell folate tests. Serum is typically used for general screening, while red blood cell folate reflects long-term storage better.
  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