A patient has low serum and red blood cell folate. When their physician measures their homocysteine levels they are slightly elevated. What stage of a folate deficiency is the patient in?

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

C) Folate depletion is indicated by low serum and red blood cell folate levels before the appearance of anemia. Elevated homocysteine levels can occur due to impaired methionine synthesis, which is a consequence of reduced folate availability, but before the onset of anemia.

A Patient Has Low Serum and Red Blood Cell Folate