Measurement of Folate Levels in Patients of End Stage Renal Disease

Abstract

Back Ground: Folate deficiency is an important cause of megaloblastic anaemia in renal failure. Red cell
folate is better indicator of body folate status. This study was carried out to find out the serum and red cell
folate levels of diagnosed patient of End Stage Renal Disease (ESRD).
Methods: Sixty subjects were selected. These included 30 normal healthy subjects as control and 30
patients with ESRD. Absolute values and Hb were done by haematology auto analyzer and serum and red
cell folate were done by commercially available kits using competitive immunoassay.
Results: These were analyzed by using Student's't' test and level of significance was determined. A
significant decrease in serum and red cell folate in end stage renal disease patients as compared to control
was observed.
Conclusion: Patients of end stage renal disease are deficient in folate levels so they need folate
supplement to prevent megaloblastic anemia and minimize the risk of transfusion.