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Folate, RBC
Quest Diagnostics1 test optionFrom $31.73
Folate, RBC
Quest DiagnosticsCatalog information reviewed: August 24, 2026 by the Sunridge Medical clinical team.
What this laboratory test evaluates
Folate, RBC
This test measures the level of folate inside red blood cells (RBC) to help diagnose nutritional deficiencies. Since serum folate levels can quickly change with diet and absorption, RBC folate may be a better diagnostic tool since the levels remain fairly constant.
What patients is this test right for?This test may be recommended for individuals showing symptoms of folate deficiency or those those being monitored due to specific risks.
What type of sample is required for this test?A whole blood sample collected in an EDTA (lavender-top) tube, sent at room temperature, will be used for folate and hematocrit testing.
Test ResourcesFor more information, please consult your healthcare provider.
Additional test information
Folate, RBC – This test measures the level of folate inside red blood cells (RBC) to help diagnose nutritional deficiencies. Since serum folate levels can quickly change with diet and absorption, RBC folate may be a better diagnostic tool since the levels remain fairly constant.
Collection and processing
- Sample type: Whole blood
- Fasting: No
- Estimated laboratory processing: Results should be available in 2 – 5 business days after the sample is collected
How Sunridge uses laboratory information
Sunridge considers the medical question, symptoms, history, medications, prior results, and whether the finding could change care before recommending testing. A laboratory result is not interpreted in isolation and does not establish a diagnosis by itself.
Before requesting this test
Availability, collection requirements, eligibility, and processing estimates can change. Sunridge reviews each request and, when appropriate, creates the order through Fullscript. Follow the current instructions supplied with the approved order.
Common questions about this laboratory test
- What sample does this test require?
- The listed sample type is Whole blood. Confirm current collection instructions in the approved order.
- Does this test require fasting?
- The current catalog record lists fasting as: No. Follow the instructions supplied with the approved order.
- How long does laboratory processing usually take?
- Results should be available in 2 – 5 business days after the sample is collected. Timing can change after collection or if a laboratory requires additional review.
About this test
Folate, RBC
This test measures the level of folate inside red blood cells (RBC) to help diagnose nutritional deficiencies. Since serum folate levels can quickly change with diet and absorption, RBC folate may be a better diagnostic tool since the levels remain fairly constant.
What patients is this test right for?This test may be recommended for individuals showing symptoms of folate deficiency or those those being monitored due to specific risks.
What type of sample is required for this test?A whole blood sample collected in an EDTA (lavender-top) tube, sent at room temperature, will be used for folate and hematocrit testing.
Test ResourcesFor more information, please consult your healthcare provider.
Additional details
Folate, RBC - This test measures the level of folate inside red blood cells (RBC) to help diagnose nutritional deficiencies. Since serum folate levels can quickly change with diet and absorption, RBC folate may be a better diagnostic tool since the levels remain fairly constant.
Highlighted health areas
- Cardiovascular
- Metabolic function
- Nutrition
Biomarkers and report focus
The exact analytes and report format can change. Confirm the current contents in the Fullscript order before payment.
- Folate (RBC)