Homocysteine, Total (Mass Concentration)
This test measures the amount of homocysteine, a type of amino acid, in your blood. Homocysteine is important because high levels can increase your risk of certain health problems.
["High homocysteine levels may signal a need for further evaluation of heart, blood vessel, or nerve health."]
Key facts at a glance
- LOINC
- 12470-1
- Short code
- Hcys Ur-mCnc
- Synonyms
- Hcys Ur-mCnc
- Category
- chemistry
- Sample
- urine
- Container
- Sterile urine container
- Units
- N/A
- Fasting
- false
- Population
- adult
- Sex
- all
- Age range
- 18–65 years
- Specimen volume
- 10 mL
- Stability
- Room temperature: 2h, Refrigerated: 24h, Frozen: 7d
- Hemolysis max
- 0
- Lipemia max
- 0
- Icterus max
- 0
- TAT
- 4–24 hours
- Order
- routine
Why Might This Test Be Ordered?
Your healthcare provider may recommend this test if you have a history of heart disease, stroke, peripheral artery disease, or other vascular conditions. It may also be checked in people with kidney disease, certain genetic conditions, or those taking folic acid, vitamin B6, or vitamin B12 supplements. Sometimes it’s part of routine screening for those at higher risk of cardiovascular issues.
What Does It Measure?
Homocysteine is a sulfur-containing amino acid that your body produces naturally. It plays a role in the metabolism of other amino acids, but when levels are too high, it can damage blood vessels and nerves over time. This test helps assess whether your levels are within a healthy range.
How Is the Test Done?
A blood sample is taken from a vein, usually in your arm. The sample is sent to a lab where it is analyzed to measure the total amount of homocysteine present. The test typically takes a few days for results to be processed and returned.
What Do the Results Mean?
There are no specific reference ranges provided here, as they can vary by lab and individual health status. Your healthcare provider will interpret the results in the context of your overall health and medical history. High levels may prompt further testing or lifestyle recommendations.
Clinical interpretation
How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.
Clinical Significance
Short name
Total Homocysteine
Frequently asked questions
What Are Common Causes of High Homocysteine Levels?
What Are Common Causes of Low Homocysteine Levels?
How Often Should This Test Be Done?
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