Serum or plasma concentration of homocysteine

Why This Test Might Be Ordered

Your doctor may recommend this test if you have a history of heart disease, stroke, or other vascular conditions. It could also be part of routine screening if you have risk factors like high blood pressure, diabetes, or smoking. Sometimes, it’s checked in people with kidney disease or those taking certain medications that affect homocysteine levels.

What to Expect Before the Test

No special preparation is needed for this test. You may have blood drawn from a vein in your arm, similar to other blood tests. If you’re on folic acid or vitamin B supplements, let your doctor know, as they can affect results.

What the Results Mean

Results are compared to general reference ranges for healthy adults. High levels may suggest increased risk for heart disease or other health issues, while low levels are less commonly associated with problems. Your doctor will discuss your specific results in the context of your overall health.

Common Causes of Abnormal Results

High homocysteine levels can be caused by genetic factors, kidney disease, certain medications (like folic acid supplements), or poor nutrition. Low levels are less frequently linked to specific conditions but may occur with certain genetic or metabolic disorders.