Skip to content

Folate (Serum) Concentration

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

This test measures the amount of folate (vitamin B9) in your blood serum. Folate is important for red blood cell production and DNA synthesis.

Quick summary

["Check your folate levels to ensure proper vitamin intake and prevent deficiencies."]

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

Key facts at a glance

LOINC
33099-3
Short code
GA from FL.Jeanty82
Synonyms
GA from FL.Jeanty82
Category
chemistry
Sample
serum
Container
Red-top tube (SST)
Units
N/A
Fasting
false
Population
adult
Sex
all
Age range
18–65 years
Method
us-estimated-from-fl-jeanty
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 healthcare provider may order a serum folate test to evaluate your risk of deficiency, monitor treatment for conditions like anemia, or assess nutritional status. Deficiencies can occur due to poor diet, certain medications, or malabsorption issues.

What to Expect Before the Test

No special preparation is usually needed. You may have a small needle inserted into your arm to draw blood. If you’re on medications that affect folate absorption, let your provider know.

What the Results Mean

Results help determine if your folate levels are within a healthy range. Low levels may indicate dietary deficiencies, absorption problems, or conditions like alcoholism or pregnancy-related needs.

Common Conditions Linked to Folate Levels

Low folate is often linked to megaloblastic anemia (large, immature red blood cells) or neural tube defects in pregnancy. High levels may be seen in certain genetic conditions or overconsumption of folate supplements.

Clinical interpretation

How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.

Clinical Significance

Short name

Serum Folate

Frequently asked questions

Can folate levels change with diet or supplements?
Yes, folate levels can fluctuate based on diet (leafy greens, fortified foods) and supplements. If you take folic acid supplements, discuss dosing with your provider to avoid masking other deficiencies like vitamin B12.
What if my results are low?
If your folate levels are low, your provider may recommend dietary changes, supplements, or further testing to check for underlying conditions like celiac disease or pernicious anemia.
Does this test interact with other blood tests?
Yes, folate testing is often done alongside other B-vitamin tests (e.g., vitamin B12). High folate can mask B12 deficiency symptoms, so providers may check both together.
  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