Vitamin B12 and Folate Panel (Serum)
This test measures your levels of vitamin B12 and folate, two essential nutrients that help your body make healthy red blood cells and keep your nerves functioning properly.
["Vitamin B12 and folate are critical for energy, nerve health, and red blood cell production."]
Key facts at a glance
- LOINC
- 96805-7
- Short code
- Vit B12 + folate Pnl Ser
- Synonyms
- Vit B12 + folate Pnl Ser
- Category
- chemistry
- Sample
- serum
- Container
- Red-top tube (SST)
- Units
- N/A
- Ref low
- 200
- Ref high
- 900
- Fasting
- false
- Population
- adult
- Sex
- all
- Age range
- 18–65 years
- 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 This Test Might Be Ordered
Your doctor may recommend this panel if you have symptoms like fatigue, weakness, numbness, tingling, or trouble concentrating. It’s also used to check for deficiencies that could be causing anemia or nerve problems, especially in people with certain medical conditions or those who follow strict diets.
What to Expect Before the Test
No special preparation is needed. You’ll provide a blood sample drawn from a vein in your arm. The test is quick and usually done at a clinic or lab. If you’re taking certain medications, tell your doctor beforehand.
What the Results Mean
Low levels of either vitamin may indicate a deficiency, which can lead to anemia or nerve damage. High levels might suggest overconsumption or certain medical conditions. Your doctor will discuss results with you based on your health history and symptoms.
Common Reasons for Testing
This panel is often ordered to diagnose or monitor conditions like pernicious anemia, vitamin deficiencies, or to check for nutrient imbalances in people with chronic illnesses or those who don’t eat a balanced diet.
Reference range
NCBI: Vitamin B12 200-900 pg/mLN/A
Fasting for 8-12 hours preferred for some tests. Inform about supplements you are taking.
Clinical interpretation
How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.
Clinical Significance
Short name
B12 & Folate Serum Panel
Frequently asked questions
What are the typical reference ranges for these vitamins?
Can I take supplements to fix a deficiency before seeing my doctor?
How often should I get this test if I have a history of low B12 or folate?
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