FOLATE LEVELS AND THEIR ASSOCIATION WITH ERYTHROCYTE INDICES AND RENAL FUNCTION IN PATIENTS WITH CHRONIC KIDNEY DISEASE

Anemia is a frequent complication of chronic kidney disease (CKD) and is traditionally attributed to erythropoietin deficiency. However, disturbances in micronutrient metabolism, particularly folate (vitamin B9), may contribute to ineffective erythropoiesis. To investigate the association between serum folate levels, erythrocyte indices, and renal function in patients with CKD. A cross-sectional study including 60 CKD patients was conducted in 2025–2026. Renal function was assessed by serum creatinine and estimated glomerular filtration rate (eGFR). Hematological parameters and serum folate were measured.