Definition
Low serum folate
Low serum folate is defined as below the lower end of the normal range. Serum folate levels can fluctuate according to recent dietary intake. Levels at the lower end of the normal range may still suggest deficiency. The most helpful investigation is a dietary history.
Effects include glossitis, macrocytic anaemia, neuropathy.
Folate is present in leafy vegetables and fruit. It is not stored and is destroyed by overcooking. Dietary deficiency is thus extremely common.
Folate and iron are absorbed in the jejunum so combined deficiency is very suggestive of Coeliac disease or inflammatory bowel disease.
Serum folate levels can fluctuate according to recent dietary intake. Levels at the lower end of the normal range may still suggest deficiency. The most helpful investigation is a dietary history.
Folate can be stopped if there is an obvious temporary dietary cause of deficiency.
Uncomplicated folate deficiency
SCI Gateway to Department of Haematology BGH
Folate can be stopped if obvious temporary dietary cause of deficiency.
Primary care investigations
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