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HelpTest ID FB12 Vitamin B12 and Folate, Serum
Useful For
Investigation of macrocytic anemia
Workup of deficiencies seen in megaloblastic anemias
Investigation of suspected folate deficiency
Diagnosis of vitamin B12 deficiency-associated neuropathy
Testing Algorithm
For more information, see Vitamin B12 Deficiency Evaluation.
Performing Laboratory
Mayo Clinic Laboratories in Rochester
Specimen Type
SerumSpecimen Required
Patient Preparation:
1. Fasting: 8 hours, required
2. Do not order on patients who have recently received methotrexate or other folic acid antagonists.
Collection Container/Tube:
Preferred: Red top
Acceptable: Serum gel
Submission Container/Tube: Plastic vial
Specimen Volume: 1 mL serum
Collection Instructions: Centrifuge and aliquot serum into a plastic vial.
Specimen Stability Information
| Specimen Type | Temperature | Time |
|---|---|---|
| Serum | Refrigerated (preferred) | 7 days |
| Frozen | 90 days |
Special Instructions
Reference Values
VITAMIN B12
180-914 ng/L
FOLATE
≥4.0 mcg/L
<4.0 mcg/L suggests folate deficiency
Day(s) Performed
Monday through Friday
CPT Code Information
82607-Vitamin B12
82746-Folate
Report Available
1 to 3 daysReject Due To
| Gross hemolysis | Reject |
| Gross lipemia | OK |
Forms
If not ordering electronically, complete, print, and send 1 of the following forms with the specimen: