Vitamin B12 and Folate, Serum Test
Vitamin B12 and Folate, Serum Test
Vitamin B12 and Folate, Serum is a test used to measure the levels of vitamin B12 and folate in the serum. Both Folate and vitamin B12 are a part of the vitamin B - complex. Folate is found abundantly in green leafy vegetables, peas, citrus fruits, yeast, liver, and dry beans. Vitamin B12 is found in animal products like red meat, fish, milk, and eggs.
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Both vitamin B12 and folate work together in the repair of tissues and cells, the formation of red blood cells and DNA synthesis. Vitamin B12 is indispensable for a healthy nervous system while folate is necessary for cell division in the growth of the fetus during pregnancy. A deficiency of either folate or vitamin B12 can lead to a type of anemia called macrocytic anemia where the red blood cells become abnormally large.
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Folate deficiency in the initial part of pregnancy can lead to neural tube defects like spina bifida in the growing fetus. Vitamin B12 deficiency can cause neuropathy of varying degrees and intensity. It can be in the form of tingling and numbness of hands and feet to severe weakness, loss of memory and incoordination in case of subacute combined degeneration of the spinal cord (SACD).
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Therefore, this test is recommended to determine if the hematological or neurological symptoms are due to a deficiency of folate or vitamin B12.
Symptoms of folate deficiency
Fatigue
Shortness of breath
Mouth sores
Irritability
Fetal abnormalities
Infertility
Decreased Cognition
Cardiac abnormalities
Symptoms of vitamin B12 deficiency3
Fatigue
Weakness
Shortness of breath
Nerve problems like tingling, numbness
Behavioral changes
Memory loss
Heart palpitations
Who should get tested?
This test is indicated for people who have the following symptoms
Elderly person with behavioral changes
Abnormal sensation in toes and fingertips
Weakness or clumsiness of hands and feet
Signs of malnutrition and anemia
Test preparation
Food can impact folate levels, and therefore, fasting of 6 to 8 hours is recommended. However, vitamin B12 does not require fasting. Certain types of medication and pregnancy can affect the test results. It is advised to consult your health care professional on whether or not a medicine needs to be stopped before the test.
Interpretation of the test results
1.    Vitamin B12: The normal levels of vitamin B12 in serum are 180-914 ng/L. Less than 150 ng/L is considered a deficiency. Levels between 150 ng/L and 300 ng/L are considered borderline.
2.   Folate: The normal levels of folate in serum are > or = 4.0 mcg/L. Less than < 4.0 mcg/L is considered a deficiency.
FAQs
How is the sample collected for vitamin B12 and folate, serum?
A healthcare professional takes a blood sample from a vein in the arm using a small needle. The sample is further sent to the laboratory for analysis.
What is the treatment for vitamin B12 and folate deficiency?
Supplements of folate and vitamin B12 are available as therapy for their deficiencies.
Can I prevent vitamin B12 and folate deficiency?
The deficiency of folate can be prevented by taking a balanced diet with plenty of fresh fruits, vegetables and grains. Vitamin B12 is abundantly present in animal products like milk and meat. Additionally, supplements of folate are given especially during pregnancy. Vitamin B12 is available in oral or injectable forms.
Can excess vitamin B12 and folate cause harm?
Excess folate gets excreted via urine and causes no harm. Higher levels of vitamin B12 without taking supplements can be due to some serious illnesses and should be further investigated.
What are the causes of low folate and vitamin B12 levels?
Low serum folate levels can have various causes like malnutrition, alcoholism, certain medications, and malabsorption due to diseases like coeliac disease and inflammatory bowel diseases. Low vitamin B12 level is caused by malabsorption diseases like pernicious anemia, certain medications, and autoimmune diseases.
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