Synonyms: Folic Acid

Why It Is Done

Detect folate deficiency
Monitor therapy with folate.
Evaluate megaloblastic and macrocytic anemia.
Evaluate alcoholic patients and those with prior jejunoileal bypass for morbid obesity or those with intestinal blind-loop syndrome

Test Overview

Folic acid, one of the B vitamins, is important for the normal development of an unborn child (fetus). Folic acid and its closely related compounds, folates, are needed for the production of red and white blood cells and platelets, the formation of genetic material (DNA) in cells, and growth.

Only a small amount of folic acid is stored in the body. Therefore, to avoid a deficiency, a person must get folic acid regularly from the foods in the diet.

How To Prepare

No special preparation needed.