Pathology tests database

Sample and container requirements

Serum Lithium Heparin Plasma (paediatrics only)

Minimum volume required

75 µL serum/plasma

Special requirements

None

Patient preparation

Samples from patients receiving high biotin doses (i.e. >5 mg/day) should be taken at least 8 hours post-dose. Patients receiving treatment with methotrexate or leucovorin are contraindicated due to cross reactivity of folate binding proteins with these compounds.

Sample viability

Turnaround time

This assay is run throughout the day and night. The in-lab turnaround time is normally less than 24 hours.

Reference range

3.1 – 20.5 µg/L. (Source: Abbott Diagnostics)

Clinical guidance

Folate plays an essential role in the formation of DNA and RNA, the function of vitamin B12, the formation of haem, and the formation of red and white blood cells. Please refer to LabTestsOnlineUK to learn more about folate. https://labtestsonline.org.uk/tests/vitamin-b12-and-folate

Notes