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Folate/Folic Acid

Test Code
FOLA


CPT Codes
82746

Preferred Specimen
3.0 mL serum


Instructions
Folate is light sensitive.  Minimize exposure to light during sample handling and storage.


Transport Container
Gold Top Tube/Serum Seperator Tube


Transport Temperature
Refrigerated/Room temperature


Reject Criteria (Eg, hemolysis? Lipemia? Thaw/Other?)
Hemolysis


Methodology
Immunoassay.

Reference Range
Normal:                          3.1-17.5 ng/mL
Borderline Deficient:    2.2-3.0 ng/mL
Deficient:                        <2.2 ng/mL         


Clinical Significance


Folic Acid defiency 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 intestines.
Low folic acid levels can also be the result of a primary vitamin B12 deficiency that decreases the ability of cells to take up folic acid.






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.