Folate / Folic Acid
Folate is essential for DNA synthesis and red blood cell formation. Deficiency causes megaloblastic anemia and neural tube defects in pregnancy.
Test Information
Reports In
Same day (6 hours)
Parameters
1
Requisites
Blood Sample
Sample Type
Blood
Measures
Serum folate concentration
Identifies
Folate deficiency, megaloblastic anemia, B12 deficiency workup
What is the Folate Test?
Folate (Vitamin B9) is essential for DNA synthesis, red blood cell formation, and fetal neural tube development. Deficiency causes megaloblastic anemia (similar to B12 deficiency) and is particularly dangerous during early pregnancy — low folate is the primary cause of neural tube defects (spina bifida) in newborns.
Why Should You Take This Test?
Evaluates folate status for anemia, pregnancy, and malabsorption. Often ordered with B12.
Who Should Get Tested?
Women Planning Pregnancy
Folate supplementation before conception prevents birth defects.
Pregnant Women
Increased folate demand during pregnancy.
Anemia Patients
Folate deficiency causes macrocytic anemia.
Alcohol Users
Alcohol impairs folate absorption.
Warning Signs — When Should You Get This Test?
Common Conditions Detected
Frequently Booked Together
Tests commonly ordered alongside Folate for a complete picture
Vitamin B12
B12 and folate deficiencies often coexist
CBC
Check for macrocytic anemia
Homocysteine
Rises with folate deficiency
Related Tests
Other tests you might be interested in
A fundamental blood test that counts your red cells, white cells, platelets, and hemoglobin—the cornerstone of many health screenings.
BloodA targeted fever workup that pinpoints the cause—whether dengue, malaria, typhoid, or bacterial infection—especially useful during monsoon season.
BloodA simple blood test that measures inflammation in your body—useful for infections, autoimmune conditions, and heart disease risk.
BloodMeasures the number of platelets in your blood—essential for clotting. Critical for dengue monitoring and bleeding disorder screening.
Blood