Homocysteine (total) with Methylcobalamin and Folate Status
This test measures your total homocysteine levels and checks your vitamin B12 (methylcobalamin) and folate (folate) status to help assess your risk for certain health conditions.
["Homocysteine levels and vitamin B levels can affect your heart health and nerve function."]
Key facts at a glance
- LOINC
- 72502-8
- Short code
- Hcys 6h p Met-CFst SerPl-SCDiff
- Synonyms
- Hcys 6h p Met-CFst SerPl-SCDiff
- 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 This Test Might Be Ordered
Your healthcare provider may recommend this test if you have a history of heart disease, stroke, nerve problems, or if you’re at higher risk for these conditions. It may also be used to monitor treatment for conditions like pernicious anemia or vitamin deficiencies.
What Homocysteine and Vitamins Do in Your Body
Homocysteine is an amino acid that can build up in your blood if your body doesn’t have enough vitamin B12 or folate. High levels may increase your risk of blood clots, heart disease, or nerve damage. Methylcobalamin (vitamin B12) and folate help your body process homocysteine and keep your nerves and blood vessels healthy.
Specimen and Test Method
This test uses a blood sample drawn from your arm. The homocysteine level is measured using a specialized immunoassay, while vitamin B12 and folate levels are typically analyzed via a different immunoassay or enzymatic method.
What to Expect Before the Test
No special preparation is needed for this test. However, if you’re taking folate or vitamin B12 supplements, your provider may ask you to stop them for a few days before testing to get an accurate result.
Clinical interpretation
How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.
Elevated homocysteine levels combined with low vitamin B12 or folate may indicate a higher risk for cardiovascular diseases, such as heart attacks or strokes. It can also be linked to nerve damage (neuropathy) or osteoporosis. Regular monitoring can help manage these risks, especially in people with known deficiencies or genetic predispositions.
Short name
Homocysteine Profile
Frequently asked questions
How long does it take to get results?
What do my results mean?
Can I take supplements to lower my homocysteine levels?
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