Homocysteine, Serum Concentration
This test measures the level of homocysteine, an amino acid that can build up in your blood. High levels may be linked to certain health risks.
["Homocysteine levels can signal potential risks for heart disease or other health concerns."]
Key facts at a glance
- LOINC
- 55879-1
- Short code
- (Hcys)2 Fld-sCnc
- Synonyms
- (Hcys)2 Fld-sCnc
- Category
- chemistry
- Sample
- serum
- Container
- Red-top tube (SST)
- Units
- N/A
- Fasting
- false
- Population
- adult
- Sex
- all
- Age range
- 18–65 years
- 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 Is This Test Done?
Your healthcare provider may order this test if you have a family history of heart disease, stroke, or certain genetic conditions. It may also be checked if you have symptoms like fatigue, numbness, or unexplained bruising. Sometimes, doctors test homocysteine levels to monitor or guide treatment for conditions like vitamin deficiencies or kidney disease.
What to Expect Before the Test
No special preparation is usually needed. You may be asked to fast for 8–12 hours before the test if your doctor specifies it, but this is not always required. Bring any medications you’re currently taking to your appointment.
What Happens During the Test?
A healthcare professional will draw blood from a vein in your arm using a small needle. You may feel a brief pinch, but it’s usually over quickly. The blood sample is then sent to a lab for analysis.
What to Expect After the Test
You can typically resume your normal activities right after the blood draw. There may be mild bruising or soreness at the injection site, but this usually fades within a day or two. Avoid heavy lifting or strenuous activity for a short time if your provider advises it.
Clinical interpretation
How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.
High homocysteine levels may increase the risk of blood clots, heart disease, or stroke. It can also be linked to nerve damage (neuropathy), kidney disease, or osteoporosis. Low levels may suggest vitamin deficiencies (like folate or B12), which your doctor can address with diet or supplements. Always discuss results with your healthcare provider to understand their meaning in your specific situation.
Short name
Homocysteine
Frequently asked questions
What causes homocysteine levels to be high?
How long does it take to get results?
Can I lower my homocysteine levels naturally?
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