Folic Acid

Why It Is Done

A folic acid test may be done to:

• Check for anemia. A folic acid test is often done at the same time as a test for vitamin B12 levels because a lack of either vitamin may cause anemia.
• Check for malnutrition or problems absorbing (malabsorption) folic acid.
• See if treatment for folic acid deficiency or vitamin B12 deficiency is working.
• See if a woman has enough folic acid to prevent certain birth defects and allow her baby to grow normally.

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Author:	Caroline Rea, RN, BS, MS	Last Updated: December 23, 2008
Medical Review:	Anne C. Poinier, MD - Internal Medicine Brian Leber, MDCM, FRCPC - Hematology
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