Order Code: C1259
ABN Requirement: No
Synonym: Folic Acid, Red Cell Folate
Specimen: EDTA Whole Blood
Volume: 2.0 mL
Minimum Volume: 0.3 mL
Container: EDTA (Lavender Top) tube
Collection:
- Collect and label sample according to standard protocols.
- Gently invert tube 8-10 times immediately after draw. DO NOT SHAKE.
- Do not centrifuge.
Special Instructions: Collect additional EDTA lavender top tube for other testing that requires EDTA whole blood. Folate is light sensitive. It is recommended that exposure to light during handling and storage be minimized. Wrap tube in aluminum foil to protect from light.
Transport: Store EDTA whole blood at 2°C to 8°C after collection and ship the same day per packaging instructions included with the provided shipping box.
Note: HCT testing cannot be performed on a frozen specimen. If sample is sent frozen, a default HCT result will be used for calculation of the RBC folate value.
Stability:
Folate (EDTA)
Ambient (15-25°C): 72 hours
Refrigerated (2-8°C): 72 hours
Frozen (-20°C): 30 days
Folate (light protected or amber vial)
Ambient (15-25°C): 5 days
Refrigerated (2-8°C): 5 days
Frozen (-20°C): 30 days
Hematocrit
Ambient (15-25°C): 48 hours
Refrigerated (2-8°C): 48 hours
Frozen (-20°C): Unacceptable
Causes for Rejection: Specimens other than EDTA whole blood; improper labeling; samples not stored properly; samples older than stability limits
Methodology: Immunoassay (IA)
Turn Around Time: 2-3 days
Reference Range:
| Age | ng/mL |
| All Ages | >280 |
Clinical Significance: Folate levels have diagnostic significance in nutritional deficiencies, especially in cases of severe alcoholism, function damage to the upper third of small bowel, pregnancy, and various forms of megaloblastic anemia. Since serum folate levels are subject to rapid changes reflecting diet and absorption, RBC folate may be a better diagnostic tool since the levels remain fairly constant.
The CPT codes provided are based on AMA guidelines and are for informational purposes only. CPT coding is the sole responsibility of the billing party. Please direct any questions regarding coding to the payer being billed.