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Tetrahydrofolate (THF) Derivatives — 24-Hour Urine

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

Measures folate-related tetrahydrofolate in urine collected over 24 hours to help assess folate status and metabolism.

Quick summary

["This test can help evaluate whether your body is getting, absorbing, and using enough folate."]

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

Key facts at a glance

LOINC
82897-0
Short code
PDL/THE+THF+5a-THF 24h Ur-sRto
Synonyms
PDL/THE+THF+5a-THF 24h Ur-sRto
Category
liver
Sample
urine
Container
Sterile urine container
Units
N/A
Fasting
false
Population
adult
Sex
all
Age range
18–65 years
Specimen volume
10 mL
Stability
Room temperature: 2h, Refrigerated: 24h, Frozen: 7d
Hemolysis max
0
Lipemia max
0
Icterus max
0
TAT
4–24 hours
Order
routine

What is this test?

This urine test measures folate-related tetrahydrofolate, or THF, that your body releases over a 24-hour period. The test code does not clearly identify a more specific THF derivative or laboratory method, so the result should be interpreted as a folate-related measurement.

Why might I need this test?

A clinician may order it to evaluate folate status when there is concern about low dietary intake, malabsorption, increased folate requirements, or the effects of medications or supplements.

How is the test performed?

You collect all urine for a full 24-hour period in a container provided by the laboratory. The lab then measures the THF-related folate content in the collected sample.

How do I prepare for the test?

Follow the laboratory's collection instructions and record the start and finish times. Keep your usual diet unless your clinician tells you otherwise, and ask whether supplements should be paused or timed differently before collection.

Clinical interpretation

How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.

A low result may be associated with inadequate folate intake, impaired absorption, increased bodily requirements, or certain medications. A high result may reflect recent folate supplementation or intake and should be interpreted alongside supplements, diet, symptoms, and other tests.

Short name

24-Hour Urine Folate

Frequently asked questions

What does a low urine folate result mean?
It may suggest that folate intake or absorption is insufficient, although collection errors and other factors can affect the result. Your clinician will interpret it with your medical history and other laboratory tests.
How is a 24-hour urine collection done?
Collect every urine sample during the full 24-hour period without missing any samples. The laboratory should provide specific instructions about the container, start and stop times, and storage.
Should I stop taking vitamins or folate supplements?
Do not change supplements unless your clinician advises you to, because they can strongly affect the result. If you are instructed to pause them, follow the exact timing and duration provided.
  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