Hemocysteine (Mass Concentration) in Serum or Plasma
This test measures the amount of a sulfur-containing amino acid called homocysteine in your blood. High levels may be linked to certain health risks.
["Your blood homocysteine levels can help assess your risk for heart disease or other conditions."]
Key facts at a glance
- LOINC
- 50053-8
- Short code
- Hemicystine SFr Spec
- Synonyms
- Hemicystine SFr Spec
- 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 family history of heart disease, stroke, or blood vessel problems. It could also be checked if you have symptoms like fatigue, numbness, or unexplained injuries. Sometimes, it’s part of a routine check for people with conditions like kidney disease or diabetes.
What to Expect Before the Test
No special preparation is usually needed, but you may be asked to fast for a few hours before the blood draw if your provider specifies it. On the day of the test, avoid smoking or consuming alcohol for at least 24 hours. Wear comfortable clothing and plan to stay near the testing site for a short time.
What Happens During the Test
A healthcare professional will insert a small needle into a vein in your arm to draw blood. You may feel a slight pinch or discomfort, but it usually doesn’t last long. The blood sample will be sent to a lab for analysis.
What the Results Mean
Results are typically reported as a numerical value representing the concentration of homocysteine in your blood. While reference ranges vary by lab, high levels (above typical values) may signal an increased risk for vascular issues. Your provider will discuss these results with you in detail and may recommend further testing or lifestyle changes if needed.
Clinical interpretation
How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.
Elevated homocysteine levels are associated with an increased risk of cardiovascular diseases, such as heart attacks and strokes. It may also play a role in other conditions like peripheral artery disease, osteoporosis, and certain types of nerve damage. Your provider may use these results to guide treatment plans, such as adjusting medications or recommending dietary changes to lower homocysteine levels.
Short name
Hemocysteine Level
Frequently asked questions
What causes homocysteine levels to be high?
How can I lower my homocysteine levels?
Do I need to do anything special after the blood 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