Methylmalonic Acid in Serum or Plasma (Mass Concentration)
This test measures the level of methylmalonic acid, a substance produced when certain amino acids break down in your body. It helps assess how well your body is processing nutrients and can indicate potential vitamin deficiencies or metabolic disorders.
["High levels may signal underlying health concerns needing further evaluation."]
Key facts at a glance
- LOINC
- 72361-9
- Short code
- MetHgb MFr BldCoA
- Synonyms
- MetHgb MFr BldCoA
- Category
- hematology
- Sample
- whole-blood
- Container
- Lavender-top (EDTA)
- Units
- N/A
- Ref low
- 12
- Ref high
- 17.5
- Critical range
- 7 N/A – 20 N/A
- Fasting
- false
- Population
- adult
- Sex
- all
- Age range
- 18–65 years
- CPT
- 85018
- SNOMED
- 900000000000003004
- Specimen volume
- 3 mL
- Stability
- Room temperature: 4h, Refrigerated: 24h
- Hemolysis max
- 0
- Lipemia max
- 0
- Icterus max
- 0
- TAT
- 4–24 hours
- Order
- routine
Why This Test Might Be Ordered
Your healthcare provider may recommend this test if you have symptoms like fatigue, muscle weakness, or neurological issues, or if you have conditions such as vitamin B12 deficiency, pernicious anemia, or certain genetic metabolic disorders. It may also be part of routine monitoring for patients with kidney disease or those receiving certain medications.
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 draw if your lab uses a fasting protocol. Bring any medications or supplements you’re taking to your appointment.
How the Test Works
A small sample of your blood (serum or plasma) is collected via a needle inserted into a vein, usually in your arm. The sample is then sent to a lab for analysis using a specialized method to measure methylmalonic acid levels.
What the Results Mean
Results are compared to a reference range specific to your lab. Elevated levels may suggest conditions like vitamin B12 deficiency, mitochondrial disorders, or other metabolic issues. Low levels could indicate rare genetic disorders or malabsorption problems.
Reference range
Adult males: 13.5-17.5 g/dL; Females: 12.0-16.0 g/dLN/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.
Clinical Significance
Short name
MMA (Serum/Plasma)
Frequently asked questions
What could cause elevated levels of methylmalonic acid?
What symptoms might indicate a need for this test?
Does fasting affect this 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