Vitamin B12 and Folate

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Overview

Serum vitamin B12 and folate concentrations may be useful in diagnosing small intestinal disease in dogs and cats. Historically, the tests have also been used for diagnosis of small intestinal bacterial overgrowth/antibiotic responsive diarrhoea, but the characteristics of these conditions and the clinical utility of the tests for this specific purpose is a source of controversy. A single serum sample is required.

Abnormality Interpretation
Low folate Disease of the proximal small intestine
Low Vitamin B12 Disease of the distal small intestine, EPI
Low/normal Vitamin B12 with high folate SIBO/ARD. Folate is normal or increased with EPI

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Authors & References

NationWide Laboratories