Name of the Procedure:

Folic Acid; Serum
Common Names: Folate Test, Serum Folate, Vitamin B9 Test

Summary

A folic acid serum test measures the level of folic acid (vitamin B9) in your blood. Folic acid is crucial for DNA synthesis, red blood cell production, and overall cell function.

Purpose

The test helps diagnose conditions related to folic acid deficiency, such as certain types of anemia, and to monitor the effectiveness of treatment once folic acid supplements are administered.

Indications

• Symptoms such as persistent fatigue, weakness, pale skin, irritability, or shortness of breath.
• Nutritional assessment, particularly in patients with poor diet, malnutrition, or malabsorption conditions.
• Monitoring patients with diseases that affect folic acid absorption like celiac disease or Crohn’s disease.

Preparation

• Generally, fasting is not required.
• You may need to inform your doctor about any medications or supplements you are taking, as some can affect folic acid levels.
• No specific diagnostic tests are typically required beforehand.

Procedure Description

1. A healthcare professional will clean the site, usually the inside of your elbow or the back of your hand.
2. A tourniquet is placed around your upper arm to fill your veins with blood.
3. A needle is inserted into a vein, and a blood sample is collected into a vial or syringe.
4. The blood sample is sent to a laboratory for analysis.

Duration

The blood draw typically takes about 5–10 minutes.

Setting

The procedure is usually performed in a hospital, outpatient clinic, or a diagnostic laboratory.

Personnel

• Phlebotomist or nurse performs the blood draw.
• Laboratory technicians analyze the blood sample.

Risks and Complications

• Minor risks include pain, bruising, or bleeding at the puncture site.
• Rare risks are infection or fainting during blood draw.
• Most complications are easily managed by healthcare staff.

Benefits

• Accurate diagnosis of folic acid deficiency conditions.
• Helps in monitoring and managing treatment effectiveness.
• Results are usually available within a few days, allowing timely intervention.

Recovery

• Post-procedure care is minimal.
• You can resume normal activities immediately after the blood draw.
• Keep the puncture site clean and monitored for any unusual signs of infection.

Alternatives

• Red Blood Cell (RBC) folate test: Measures folate within the red blood cells.
• Dietary assessment: Evaluates dietary intake of folic acid.
• Homocysteine test: Assesses levels which can be elevated due to low folic acid.

Patient Experience

• Mild discomfort or a sting when the needle is inserted.
• Some patients may feel anxious about blood draws.
• Pain is usually minimal and temporary.
• Staff will provide comfort measures and can address any concerns.