Vitamin B-12 Test

The Vitamin B12 test measures the level of Vitamin B12 (cobalamin) in the blood, an essential nutrient crucial for maintaining healthy nerve cells and blood cells. Vitamin B12 also aids in the synthesis of deoxyribonucleic acid (DNA), the genetic material found in every cell of the body. Since the human body cannot produce Vitamin B12 on its own, it needs to obtain it through foods such as meat, eggs, and dairy. In India, approximately 47% of people suffer from Vitamin B12 deficiency, which can lead to macrocytic anemia, a condition that can cause neuropathy, resulting in tingling or numbness in the hands and feet. Therefore, testing Vitamin B12 levels is important to prevent any potential complications and ensure overall health.

If a full blood count test shows low haemoglobin levels, large red blood cells, or unusual white blood cells, your doctor may recommend a Vitamin B12 test. Other reasons why you might need to do this test include symptoms such as: Nausea, vomiting, or diarrhoea Reduced appetite Extreme fatigue or weakness Sensations like tingling or numbness in the hands and feet Yellowish skin Weight loss Mouth or tongue soreness Vision issues Impaired walking or speech Irritability Changes in mood and behavior Depressed mood Difficulty remembering or confusion Besides these symptoms, you may also need a Vitamin B12 blood test if you: Are older than 70 years, as elderly individuals have a higher risk of Vitamin B12 deficiency due to reduced absorption of nutrients in their body.

Understanding your report

What your results can mean — always review them with your doctor:

Results & Interpretation Vitamin B12 Normal Range The normal range of Vitamin B12 is 239-931 pg/mL. Understanding the Test Results Low Levels Below normal levels of Vitamin B12 could indicate a deficiency, the causes of which include: Lack of intrinsic factor or production of intrinsic antibodies (seen in pernicious anaemia) Certain surgical procedures like weight loss surgeries Gastrointestinal conditions like atrophic gastritis Hereditary disorders like transcobalamin II deficiency Conditions that cause reduced absorption of the vitamin such as Crohn's disease, celiac disease, pancreatitis, and resected small bowel Dietary deficiencies, particularly in vegetarians Fish tapeworm infection High homocysteine levels Moreover, heightened requirements, particularly during pregnancy (final trimester), can also lead to reduced levels of Vitamin B12. Please note that since Vitamin B12 and folate collaborate to support cell function, your doctor may recommend testing your folate level simultaneously. High levels An elevated level of Vitamin B12 is rare, as excess amounts are typically excreted in urine. Conditions that may result in increased Vitamin B12 levels include: Chronic kidney disease Congestive heart failure Myelogenous or promyelocytic leukaemia Protein malnutrition Polycythaemia vera Hepatocellular carcinoma Metastatic liver disease Acute hepatitis Cirrhosis Drug-induced cholestasis If you receive unexpected results from your Vitamin B12 test, it's important to consult your doctor for further guidance and interpretation. Arrange your Vitamin B12 test to make