Folic Acid

At IntroLab in Belgrade, you can have a folic acid test as part of our comprehensive blood analysis services. This test is essential for detecting folic acid deficiency and diagnosing specific types of anemia. It is also used to evaluate the nutritional status of individuals at a higher risk of malnutrition.

What is Folic Acid?

Folic acid is an essential B vitamin naturally found in green leafy vegetables and citrus fruits. It plays a crucial role in DNA synthesis, the formation of red blood cells, and the normal functioning of tissues and cells. It is especially important for cell division and is necessary for proper fetal development.

Who should get a Folic Acid test?

The folate (folic acid) test is used as a diagnostic tool to identify macrocytic anemia and neuropathy, as well as to assess nutritional status and monitor folate deficiency.

Individuals showing symptoms of anemia (weakness, fatigue, pale skin) and/or neuropathy (unusual sensations, itching, eyelid twitching, memory loss, altered mental status) that may indicate megaloblastic anemia, as well as those being treated for folate deficiency, should undergo folate testing.

It is important to determine both folic acid and vitamin B12 levels for a more complete assessment. If possible, a comprehensive analysis of the B vitamin group is also recommended.

What do low and high Folate levels indicate?

Low folic acid levels, combined with the appropriate clinical picture, indicate the possibility of macrocytic anemia. Additionally, reduced folic acid concentration can be present in cases of neuropathy, poor intestinal absorption, chronic alcoholism, inadequate dietary intake, pregnancy, absence of intestinal microorganisms, hemolytic anemia, and cancer.

When blood test results show elevated folate levels, this may be due to supplementation or consumption of folate-rich foods.