Vörösvértestfolát

Vörösvértestfolát, also known as erythrocyte folate or red blood cell folate, refers to the concentration of folate within red blood cells. Folate is a B vitamin crucial for DNA synthesis, repair, and methylation. It plays a vital role in cell division and the formation of red blood cells, hence its presence in these cells.

Measuring vörösvértestfolát provides a more stable and long-term indicator of folate status compared to serum folate levels, which can fluctuate more rapidly. Red blood cells have a lifespan of about 120 days, so the folate concentration within them reflects the body's folate intake over a period of several months.

Low levels of vörösvértestfolát can indicate a folate deficiency. This deficiency can lead to megaloblastic anemia, a condition characterized by large, immature red blood cells that are unable to carry oxygen effectively. Symptoms of folate deficiency can include fatigue, weakness, pale skin, and shortness of breath. Pregnant women with folate deficiency are at a higher risk of neural tube defects in their developing babies.

Factors contributing to low vörösvértestfolát include inadequate dietary intake of folate-rich foods such as leafy green vegetables, fruits, and legumes, as well as certain medical conditions, medications, and increased folate requirements during pregnancy. Supplementation with folic acid, the synthetic form of folate, is often recommended to correct deficiencies and maintain adequate folate levels.