FOLATE

Message
CHEMISTRY


Test Code
FOLATE


Alias/See Also
FOLIC ACID


Preferred Specimen
SERUM


Minimum Volume
2mLs


Instructions
DRAW 1 GOLD TOP SST TUBE, LET CLOT FOR 30 MINUTES, AND SPIN DOWN.


Transport Container
ORIGINAL TUBE


Transport Temperature
REFRIGERATED


Specimen Stability
Refrigerated (2-8°C): 7 days. Separate if not tested within this time.
Frozen (-10°C or colder): 30 days
Max freeze/thaw cycles: 3


Methodology
Chemiluminescent microparticle immunoassay

Setup Schedule
DAILY


Report Available
DAILY


Reference Range
> 5.2 ng/mL


Clinical Significance
Folic acid deficiency is common in pregnant women, alcoholics, in patients whose diets do not include raw fruits and vegetables, and in people with structural damage to the small intestine. The most reliable and direct method of diagnosing folate deficiency is the determination of folate levels in both erythrocytes and serum. Low folic acid levels, however, can also be the result of a primary vitamin B12 deficiency that decreases the ability of cells to take up folic acid.


Performing Laboratory
WHITE RIVER JUNCTION VT VA- CHEMISTRY 802-295-9363 EXT: 5518, 5519



The CPT Codes provided in this document are based on AMA guidelines and are for informational purposes only. CPT coding is the sole responsibility of the billing party. Please direct any questions regarding coding to the payor being billed. Any Profile/panel component may be ordered separately. Reflex tests are performed at an additional charge.