Vitamin B12 (Cobalamin) Serum Antibody Profile (Screening)
This test measures antibodies against vitamin B12 in your blood, helping identify an autoimmune response that may interfere with proper vitamin B12 absorption.
["This screening helps diagnose conditions where your immune system attacks vitamin B12, potentially leading to deficiency symptoms."]
Key facts at a glance
- LOINC
- 77190-7
- Short code
- HBV core + surf Ab + surf Ag Pnl Ser
- Synonyms
- HBV core + surf Ab + surf Ag Pnl Ser
- Category
- chemistry
- Sample
- serum
- Container
- Red-top tube (SST)
- Units
- N/A
- Fasting
- false
- Population
- adult
- Sex
- all
- Age range
- 18–65 years
- CPT
- 86430
- Specimen volume
- 5 mL
- Stability
- Room temperature: 4h, Refrigerated: 24h, Frozen: 7d
- Hemolysis max
- 500
- Lipemia max
- 1000
- Icterus max
- 500
- TAT
- 4–24 hours
- Order
- routine
Why This Test Matters for Your Health
Vitamin B12 is essential for nerve function, red blood cell production, and DNA synthesis. If your body produces antibodies against B12, it may not absorb enough, leading to deficiencies that can cause fatigue, neurological issues, or anemia.
What to Expect Before the Test
No special preparation is needed. You’ll have a small needle inserted into your arm, and a blood sample will be drawn. The test is quick and typically done in a lab setting.
Common Conditions This Test Helps Diagnose
This screening is often used in patients with pernicious anemia, autoimmune disorders, or unexplained vitamin B12 deficiency. It helps distinguish whether the issue stems from poor absorption or another cause.
What the Results Mean
If results are positive, further testing (like a confirmatory antibody test) may be needed. Negative results suggest no autoimmune reaction against B12, but other causes of deficiency should still be evaluated.
Clinical interpretation
How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.
Positive antibody results indicate an autoimmune condition (such as pernicious anemia) where the immune system attacks B12 receptors in the stomach, preventing proper absorption. This can lead to long-term neurological and hematological complications if untreated. Early detection allows for targeted treatment (e.g., B12 injections or supplements) to restore function and prevent symptoms like numbness, weakness, or memory issues.
Short name
B12 Antibody Screen
Frequently asked questions
What causes vitamin B12 antibodies to form?
Will I need additional tests if my B12 antibody screen is positive?
Can diet alone treat vitamin B12 deficiency caused by antibodies?
Sources
- 1
- 2Lab Tests OnlineSource
- 3
Click any link to access the full source. PubMed Central (PMC) links provide free full-text access.
This information is for educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment.
This content is for general informational and educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the guidance of a qualified healthcare provider with any questions you have about a medical condition, and never disregard professional medical advice or delay seeking it because of something you read here.
If you think you may have a medical emergency, call your local emergency number or go to the nearest emergency department immediately.
Medically reviewed by WellAlly Editorial Team Last reviewed August 16, 2026. · Read our editorial policy