The test for Red Cell Folate (RBC Folate) is a blood test which requires a few millilitres of blood from a vein.
Red Cell Folate (RBC Folate) may be requested by your doctor if you have anaemia (low blood count), particularly of the macrocytic variety, where the red blood cells are increased in size. Anaemia tends to cause paleness of the skin, tiredness, decreased energy, shortness of breath on minimal exertion, and postural light-headedness or faintness when standing up.
A low Red Cell Folate level means a deficiency of the vitamin folate (folic acid). Folate is important for the normal production of red blood cells, and in prevention of neural tube defects such as spina bifida, in the unborn babies of pregnant women.
* Anemia – American spelling of Anaemia
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