RBC Folate Test - Whole Blood

The RBC Folate EDTA Whole Blood test is done to measure the levels of folate in the red blood cells (RBCs). This test is used to:

• Diagnose folate deficiency anemia, which occurs when the body does not have enough folate. Symptoms of folate deficiency anemia include fatigue, weakness, and pale skin.
• Monitor the response to folate treatment in individuals with folate deficiency anemia.
• Screen for certain types of cancer and other medical conditions that can affect folate levels in the blood.
• Monitor the folate levels in pregnant women as it is important in the development of the baby's nervous system.
• It is also used to monitor the response to treatment in individuals with other medical conditions that affect folate levels.

There are several groups of people who may be recommended to have a RBC Folate EDTA Whole Blood test done, these include:

• Women who are pregnant or planning to become pregnant: to check for deficiency and to monitor the response to folate treatment.
• Individuals with symptoms of folate deficiency anemia, such as fatigue, weakness, and pale skin.
• Individuals with certain medical conditions or taking certain medications that can affect folate levels, such as malabsorption disorders, certain types of cancer, or medications that affect folate metabolism.
• Individuals with a history of alcohol abuse, as alcohol can interfere with folate metabolism and increase the risk of deficiency.
• Elderly individuals, as they may be at a higher risk of folate deficiency due to poor diet or malabsorption.

The RBC Folate EDTA Whole Blood test is a test that measures the levels of folate (vitamin B9) in the red blood cells (RBCs).

This test requires a blood sample. A tourniquet (elastic) band is placed tightly on the upper arm. The patient is then asked to make a fist. This helps in the build-up of blood filling the veins. The skin is disinfected before needle insertion and the blood sample is collected in vacutainer.

An abnormal RBC Folate EDTA Whole Blood test result may indicate a deficiency in folate, also known as vitamin B9. Low levels of folate can lead to a condition called folate deficiency anemia, which can cause fatigue, weakness, and a variety of other symptoms. The deficiency can also cause other complications such as birth defects in pregnant women and in extreme cases, cancer. Abnormal results may be caused by poor diet, certain medical conditions, or the use of certain medications. Some medical conditions that can cause low folate levels include malabsorption disorders such as celiac disease or Crohn's disease, as well as certain types of cancer, such as leukemia. Certain medications, such as methotrexate, sulfasalazine, and trimethoprim-sulfamethoxazole can also interfere with the body's ability to absorb or use folate.