Folic Acid Test

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$29.40

A folic acid test is used to evaluate anemia and folate deficiency by measuring the amount of folic acid in the blood.

Preparation:

There is no preparation for this test.

Collection Method:

Blood Draw

Sample Type:

Blood

Processing Time:

1 day

$29.40

Folic Acid Test

$29.40

A folic acid test is used to evaluate anemia and folate deficiency by measuring the amount of folic acid in the blood.

About The Test

Test Overview

Folate deficiency is a condition characterized by insufficient levels of folate (also known as vitamin B9) in the body, which is essential for the production of DNA, red blood cells, and various biological processes. Folate is also important in pregnancy because it is essential for the development of the fetal neural tube, which forms the baby’s brain and spinal cord, and a deficiency can lead to neural tube defects in the developing baby.

Symptoms

Fatigue
Weakness
Anemia
Paleness
Shortness of breath
Glossitis (inflamed, swollen tongue)
Mouth ulcers
Cognitive difficulties
Irritability
Headache
Heart palpitations
Changes in skin, hair, or nails
Neural tube defects in pregnancy (if deficient during gestation)

Test Includes

Folic acid

Folic acid is a synthetic form of folate, a B-vitamin essential for DNA synthesis, red blood cell production, and overall cellular health. It's commonly added to foods and used in supplements to prevent folate deficiency and is especially important during pregnancy for fetal development.

Recommended For

A folic acid test is often done at the same time as a test for vitamin B12 levels because a lack of either vitamin may cause anemia. This test is also used to check for malnutrition or problems absorbing (malabsorption) folic acid, to see if treatment for folic acid deficiency or vitamin B12 deficiency is working, or to see if a woman has enough folic acid to prevent certain birth defects and allow her baby to grow normally.

Women who are pregnant or planning to become pregnant need extra folic acid to make more red blood cells and maintain normal growth of their baby. Women who do not get enough folic acid before and during pregnancy are more likely to have a child born with a birth defect, such as a cleft lip or cleft palate, or a neural tube defect, such as spina bifida.

Associated Conditions

It is fairly common to have low levels of folic acid. Alcoholism, inflammatory bowel disease (IBD), and celiac disease can cause folic acid deficiency. Also, certain medications may lower levels of folic acid in the body.

Understanding Results

Low folic acid levels in the blood can indicate a deficiency, which may be due to inadequate dietary intake, malabsorption issues, or certain medical conditions. This deficiency can lead to health problems and may necessitate folic acid supplementation or dietary adjustments. If your results are outside of the normal range, you should contact your healthcare provider