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DNA Labs India

Folate (Folic Acid) Serum Test

DNA Labs India | ISO 9001:2015 Certified

Folate (Folic Acid) Serum Test

Short Name: Folate Serum Test

Also known as: Folic Acid Test, Vitamin B9 Test, Serum Folate Test

Folate (Folic Acid) Serum Test test available at DNA Labs India for ₹1,416. Uses Chemiluminescent Immunoassay on Serum samples. Results in Reports available daily via online portal, email, or WhatsApp.. Free home collection in 300+ cities across India.

Serum Test🏠 Home Collection

✍️ Written By

🩺 Medically Reviewed By

Dr Pasupathy Arumugam

Dr Pasupathy Arumugam

Consultant Pathologist · Reg: 21521

Last reviewed: September 7, 2026

Overview

To detect folate deficiency, monitor folate levels during therapy, and evaluate nutritional status in individuals at risk.

Test Code
617
Price
₹1,416
Sample Type
Serum
Result Time
Reports available daily via online portal, email, or WhatsApp.
Fasting Required
No
Method
Chemiluminescent Immunoassay
Step 1

Sample Collection

No specific preparation required. Inform your doctor about any medications or supplements you are taking.

Method: Venipuncture

Step 2

Laboratory Analysis

A blood sample will be drawn from a vein in your arm by a trained phlebotomist.

Step 3

Report Delivery

Apply pressure to the puncture site to prevent bleeding. Resume normal activities.

Timeline: Reports available daily via online portal, email, or WhatsApp.

Patient Instructions

1
Before the Test:No fasting required. Avoid medications that may interfere with folate levels, if advised by your doctor.
2
During the Test:The test involves a simple blood draw from a vein in your arm, taking only a few minutes.
3
After the Test:You may experience slight bruising at the puncture site. Results are typically available within 24 hours.

About This Test

Who Should Get This Test

To detect folate deficiency, monitor folate levels during therapy, and evaluate nutritional status in individuals at risk.

How to Prepare

  • Wrap tube in aluminium foil to protect from light
  • Ship refrigerated or frozen
  • Use a 2 mL serum sample from an SST tube

Doctor's Notes

Reviewed by — MBBS, MD (Pathology) · Reg. No. 21521

"Folate levels are essential for red blood cell formation and DNA synthesis. Deficiency can lead to megaloblastic anemia and other complications. Regular testing is recommended for at-risk individuals, such as pregnant women or those with malabsorption disorders."

Last medically reviewed: September 7, 2026

Test Parameters & Specifications

Sample TypeSerum
Sample Volume2 mL (1 mL min.)
ContainerSST (Serum Separator Tube); wrap tube in aluminium foil to protect from light
Collection MethodVenipuncture

Sample Stability

Room Temperature8 hours
Refrigerator48 hours
Frozen4 weeks
Sample Rejection Criteria:
  • Hemolyzed or lipemic samples
  • Improperly stored or labeled samples
  • Insufficient sample volume

Understanding Your Results

Folate levels are interpreted based on reference ranges. Low levels indicate deficiency, which can cause anemia and other health issues. High levels are rare but may occur with excessive supplementation.
📊

Normal folate levels

Range: >3.0 ng/mL

📊

Possible folate deficiency; further evaluation recommended

Range: <3.0 ng/mL

⚠️ When to Consult a Doctor:

Consult your doctor if your folate levels are abnormal, or if you experience symptoms like persistent fatigue, weakness, or neurological issues.

Limitations

  • ⚠Does not distinguish between folate and vitamin B12 deficiency alone; may require additional tests
  • ⚠Results can be affected by sample handling and storage
  • ⚠Not a standalone diagnostic tool for underlying conditions

Risks & Considerations

  • ●Minor bruising or discomfort at the blood draw site
  • ●Rare risk of infection or excessive bleeding

Interfering Factors

  • ●Medications such as methotrexate, trimethoprim, or anticonvulsants
  • ●Excessive alcohol consumption
  • ●Recent dietary intake or supplementation
  • ●Hemolyzed blood samples

Frequently Asked Questions

What is a Folate (Folic Acid) Serum Test?
It is a blood test that measures the level of folate in your serum to detect deficiency or monitor treatment.
Why is this test recommended?
It is recommended to diagnose folate deficiency, investigate anemia, monitor folate therapy, or assess nutritional status.
How is the test performed?
A blood sample is drawn from a vein in your arm and analyzed in a laboratory using chemiluminescent immunoassay.
What is the cost of the Folate Serum Test at DNA Labs India?
The cost is Rs 1415.7, which includes home sample collection across India.
Is fasting required for this test?
No, fasting is not required for the Folate Serum Test.
What do the results mean?
Normal folate levels are typically above 3.0 ng/mL. Low levels may indicate deficiency, while high levels are rare but possible with excessive intake.
What are the risks of the test?
Risks are minimal and include slight bruising or discomfort at the blood draw site.
How long does it take to get results?
Results are usually available within 24 hours and can be accessed online, via email, or WhatsApp.
Can I take this test at home?
Yes, DNA Labs India offers free home sample collection for this test across many cities in India.
What should I do if my folate levels are low?
Consult your doctor, who may recommend dietary changes, supplements, or further testing for underlying causes.
How can I increase my folate levels?
Increase intake of folate-rich foods like leafy greens, legumes, and fortified cereals, or take supplements as advised by your doctor.
Is this test covered by insurance?
Coverage depends on your insurance policy. Check with your provider for details.
Worried about the process? Our certified phlebotomists collect thousands of samples every month across India. The process takes under 5 minutes and is virtually painless. Questions? Message us on WhatsApp — we're here 7 days a week.

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