Description

B12 Status Panel

Item# LC100002

This panel contains the following tests:

• Vitamin B12
• Folate
• Urinary Methylmalonic Acid

B12 and folic acid blood testing help doctors diagnose central nervous system disorders, anemia, and malabsorption syndromes. B12 and folic acid also play an important role in energy level, muscle strength, and memory.

Primary food sources for B12 and folate include egg yolks, beef, poultry, and fish; which can leave people who do not consume these food sources, such as vegetarians, deficient in these important vitamins.

Methylmalonic Acid (MMA) found in the urine is often associated with the early stages of B12 deficiency. MMA may be ordered along with a homocysteine test, when a vitamin B12 deficiency is suspected. An MMA test also may be ordered as a follow-up to an elevated homocysteine level.

Instructions

An 8 to 12 hour fast is required for this blood test. However, drink plenty of water and take your medications as prescribed.