RBC Folate

CPT Code: 82747
Order Code: 467
ABN Requirement: No
Synonym: RBC Folic Acid, Red Blood Cell Folate
Specimen: EDTA Whole Blood
Volume: 2.0 mL
Minimum Volume: 0.2 mL
Container: EDTA (Lavender Top) tube

Collection:

1. Collect and label sample according to standard protocols.
2. Gently invert tube 8-10 times immediately after draw.
3. Do not centrifuge.

Special Instructions: Collect additional EDTA lavender top tube for other testing that requires EDTA whole blood. Folate is light sensitive. It is recommended that exposure to light during handling and storage be minimized. Wrap tube in aluminum foil to protect from light.

Transport: Store EDTA whole blood at 2°C to 8°C after collection and ship the same day per packaging instructions included with the provided shipping box.

Note: Folate and hematocrit testing will be performed on this tube to calculate the RBC Folate value. HCT testing cannot be performed on a frozen specimen. If specimen is sent frozen or past stability for HCT testing, a default HCT value will be used for calculation of the RBC Folate value.

Stability:

Folate (EDTA)
Ambient (15-25°C): 5 days
Refrigerated (2-8°C): 5 days
Frozen (-20°C): 60 days

Hematocrit
Ambient (15-25°C): 2 days
Refrigerated (2-8°C): 3 days
Frozen (-20°C): Unacceptable

Causes for Rejection: Specimens other than EDTA whole blood; improper labeling; samples not stored properly; samples older than stability limits

Methodology: Immunoassay (IA)

Turn Around Time: 1 to 3 days

Reference Range:

Clinical Significance: Folate levels have diagnostic significance in nutritional deficiencies, especially in cases of severe alcoholism, function damage to the upper third of small bowel, pregnancy, and various forms of megaloblastic anemia. Since serum folate levels are subject to rapid changes reflecting diet and absorption, RBC folate may be a better diagnostic tool since the levels remain fairly constant.

The CPT codes provided are based on AMA guidelines and are for informational purposes only. CPT coding is the sole responsibility of the billing party. Please direct any questions regarding coding to the payer being billed.