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Inflammatory & Other Chemistry

Folate (Folic Acid)

Normal range 3–17 ng/mL (7–39 nmol/L SI). Specimen: Serum.

Also known as: folic acid, serum folate.

3–17 ng/mLReference range

Reference range

Conventionalng/mL
317
SInmol/L
739
SpecimenSerum
Conventional range3–17 ng/mL
SI range7–39 nmol/L
Conversion factor×2.266 (conventional → SI)
PanelInflammatory & Other Chemistry

Convert any Folate (Folic Acid) result between units on the unit converter.

What is the normal range for Folate (Folic Acid)?

The standard teaching reference range for Folate (Folic Acid) is 3–17 ng/mL in conventional units, or 7–39 nmol/L in SI units. This value is measured in serum.

Source: Adult reference values compiled from Pagana & Pagana, Mosby's Diagnostic and Laboratory Test Reference, and Fischbach & Dunning, A Manual of Laboratory and Diagnostic Tests. Reference ranges vary by laboratory, method, age, sex, and population — always use the range printed on the actual result.

Above the range

Common causes of a high Folate (Folic Acid)

  • Supplementation
  • Recent high-folate meal

Below the range

Common causes of a low Folate (Folic Acid)

  • Poor dietary intake
  • Alcohol use disorder
  • Malabsorption
  • Pregnancy (increased demand)

At the bedside

Nursing considerations

  • Deficiency causes macrocytic anemia and neural tube defects in pregnancy — supplement before conception.

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