Folic acid test

FOLIC ACID TEST

DESCRIPTION – A folate test measures the amount of folate in the blood. Folate is one of many B vitamins. The body needs folate for normal growth and to make red blood cells, white blood cells, and platelets. Folate also is important for the normal development of a baby

METHODOLOGY – quantitative chemiluminiscent immunoassay

TURN AROUND TIME – within 24 hours

SPECIMEN REQUIERED –

COLLECT – serum separator or green (sodium heparin)

SPECIMEN PREPARATION – protect from light during collection, storage and shipment

STORAGE/TRANSPORT TEMPERATURE – frozen

STABILITY – ambient: 2 hours; refrigerated: 8 hours; frozen: 6 months

UNACCEPTABLE CONDITION – EDTA plasma and hemolyzed specimens

SPECIAL INSTRUCTIONS – clinical history is mandatory