Folic acid or folates are primarily ordered to help diagnose the cause of anemia. They are ordered as follow-up tests when large RBCs and a decreased hemoglobin concentration are found during a CBC test. Folate, B12, and an assortment of other tests may be ordered to help evaluate the general health and nutritional status of a patient with signs of significant malnutrition.
In patients with known B12 and folate deficiencies, it may be ordered occasionally to help monitor the effectiveness of treatment. This is especially true in patients who cannot absorb B12 and/or folate.
For women who may get pregnant, it is really important. When a woman has enough folic acid in her body before and during pregnancy, it can prevent major birth defects of her baby's brain or spine.
Special Preparation: Requires an 8 HOUR FAST BEFORE testing and for the most accurate results, you should avoid vitamin supplements that includes folic acid.