Folate (RBC) gives a longer-term picture of folate status by measuring levels inside red blood cells. It’s more stable than serum folate and helpful in diagnosing deficiency.
Folate (RBC)
★★★★★ (4.9/5)
Regular price
£55.00
1 Biomarker
Turnaround times
At Clinilabs, we pride ourselves on providing our customers with the fastest turnaround times.
You will start receiving dispatched results as soon as they are available and have passed our clinical validation.
Turnaround times vary by test, and by cases. Some results are available within hours while more complex tests can take days.
Please note the turnaround times are a guide and are not a guarantee.
Appointment Required
Schedule at one of our partner clinics
Professional Blood Draw
Performed by certified phlebotomists
Why Clinilabs?
What’s included in this test
Vitamins
Folate (RBC)
Folate (RBC) gives a longer-term picture of folate status by measuring levels inside red blood cells. It’s more stable than serum folate and helpful in diagnosing deficiency.
FAQs
What is RBC folate?
RBC folate refers to the amount of folate (vitamin B9) stored in your red blood cells. It gives a more accurate reflection of your long-term folate status compared to serum folate, which can fluctuate more quickly.
Why is RBC folate important?
Folate is essential for DNA synthesis, red blood cell production, and proper cell division. Adequate levels are especially important during periods of rapid growth, such as pregnancy, to support fetal development and prevent neural tube defects.
What is the difference between RBC folate and serum folate?
Serum folate measures short-term folate levels in your blood and can vary depending on recent food intake. RBC folate shows folate levels over the past several weeks or months, offering a more stable indicator of folate status.
What are the symptoms of low folate?
Low RBC folate can lead to fatigue, weakness, irritability, headaches, and in more serious cases, megaloblastic anemia. In pregnancy, low folate levels increase the risk of birth defects.