Vitamin B12

Description:

The Vitamin B12 test measures the level of vitamin B12 in the blood. Vitamin B12 is an essential nutrient that plays a critical role in red blood cell production, nervous system function, and DNA synthesis. Deficiency or excess of this vitamin can lead to a range of health issues.

Purpose of the Test:

•Diagnose vitamin B12 deficiency: Common in cases of anemia, fatigue, or neurological symptoms.

•Monitor treatment: Tracks the effectiveness of vitamin B12 supplementation in deficient individuals.

•Identify causes of anemia: Helps differentiate between types of anemia, including pernicious anemia.

•Evaluate nerve health: Detects underlying issues causing numbness, tingling, or cognitive problems.

Key Notes:

•Low levels of vitamin B12 can result from poor dietary intake, malabsorption disorders (e.g., pernicious anemia, celiac disease), or gastrointestinal surgeries.

•Elevated levels can sometimes indicate underlying liver or kidney disorders.