White Blood Cell Differential with Vitamin B12 and Folate (Manual Count)
This test measures your white blood cell types (differential count) alongside vitamin B12 and folate levels, which are important for red blood cell production and overall blood health.
["Assesses immune function and vitamin deficiencies that may affect blood health."]
Key facts at a glance
- LOINC
- 68433-2
- Short code
- WBC Other # Vitf Manual
- Synonyms
- WBC Other # Vitf Manual
- Category
- chemistry
- Sample
- serum
- Container
- Red-top tube (SST)
- Units
- N/A
- Ref low
- 4.5
- Ref high
- 11
- Critical range
- 2 N/A – 30 N/A
- Fasting
- false
- Population
- adult
- Sex
- all
- Age range
- 18–65 years
- Method
- manual-count
- CPT
- 85004
- SNOMED
- 900000000000003002
- 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
Understanding Your White Blood Cell Types
A white blood cell differential (WBC diff) breaks down the five main types of white blood cells—neutrophils, lymphocytes, monocytes, eosinophils, and basophils—helping identify immune system activity or disorders. This manual method provides a precise count of each type.
Vitamin B12 and Folate Levels
Vitamin B12 and folate are essential nutrients for DNA synthesis and red blood cell production. Low levels can cause anemia, neurological issues, or fatigue. This test checks if your levels are sufficient.
How This Test Works
Your blood sample is examined under a microscope by a trained technician. The WBC differential counts each white blood cell type manually, while vitamin B12 and folate are measured using a blood test method (likely enzymatic or immunoassay).
When You Might Need This Test
Your doctor may order this test if you have symptoms like frequent infections, unexplained fatigue, unusual bruising, or if you have conditions like anemia, autoimmune diseases, or vitamin deficiencies.
Reference range
Adult: 4.5-11.0 x 10^9/LN/A
No special preparation required. Stay well hydrated.
Clinical interpretation
How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.
Abnormal WBC differentials can signal infections, inflammation, or blood disorders. Low vitamin B12 or folate may indicate poor absorption, diet issues, or underlying health problems like pernicious anemia or celiac disease. Early detection helps manage these conditions effectively.
Short name
WBC Diff + Vit B12/Folate (Manual)
Frequently asked questions
Why is a manual white blood cell count used instead of automated?
What does a low vitamin B12 or folate level mean?
Can I eat certain foods to help with vitamin 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 16, 2026. · Read our editorial policy