Homocysteine Intake Over 24 Hours Measured (Qualitative or Quantitative Assessment)
This test evaluates the amount of homocysteine your body absorbs over a 24-hour period. Homocysteine is an amino acid that plays a role in metabolism, but high levels can be linked to health risks.
["Understanding your homocysteine intake helps identify potential dietary or metabolic factors that may affect your health."]
Key facts at a glance
- LOINC
- 81935-9
- Short code
- Hcys intake 24h Measured
- Synonyms
- Hcys intake 24h Measured
- Category
- chemistry
- Sample
- serum
- Container
- Red-top tube (SST)
- Units
- N/A
- Ref low
- 20
- Ref high
- 400
- Fasting
- false
- Population
- adult
- Sex
- all
- Age range
- 18–65 years
- Method
- measured
- CPT
- 82670
- 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 concerns about nutrient absorption, metabolic health, or if you’re being evaluated for conditions like vitamin deficiencies (such as folate or B12) that can influence homocysteine levels. It may also be part of a broader assessment for genetic or chronic health conditions.
How the Test Works
This test measures the total homocysteine intake from your diet over 24 hours. Blood or urine samples may be collected at specific intervals, or dietary logs may be used to track intake. The method could involve immunoassay or another biochemical technique to quantify the substance.
Sample Collection and Preparation
You’ll likely be asked to keep a detailed food and drink log for 24 hours before the test. Blood or urine samples may be taken at designated times to capture intake patterns. Follow your provider’s instructions precisely to ensure accurate results.
What to Expect During the Test
No special preparation is usually required beyond tracking your intake. If blood samples are taken, you may experience a slight pinch, but it’s a quick procedure. If urine samples are involved, you’ll need to collect samples at specific times, possibly in a container provided by your lab.
Reference range
Premenopausal: 20-400 pg/mL; Postmenopausal: <30 pg/mLN/A
No special preparation usually required. Stay well hydrated. Inform your healthcare provider of all medications and supplements you are taking.
Clinical interpretation
How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.
◆Associated findings1
Short name
Homocysteine 24-Hour Intake Test
Frequently asked questions
How long will it take to get results?
What does a high or low homocysteine intake mean?
Can I change my diet before the test?
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