Methionine and Homocysteine Ratio in Blood
This test measures the ratio of methionine to homocysteine in your blood, which can help assess your risk for certain health conditions, including heart disease and blood vessel problems.
["This ratio helps evaluate your metabolic health and potential risks over time."]
Key facts at a glance
- LOINC
- 97554-0
- Short code
- MetHgb MFr BldCV
- Synonyms
- MetHgb MFr BldCV
- 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 Is This Test Done?
Your healthcare provider may order this test if you have a family history of heart disease, stroke, or blood vessel issues, or if you have conditions like diabetes, high blood pressure, or kidney problems. It may also be used to monitor treatment for certain genetic or metabolic disorders.
What Does the Result Mean?
A higher ratio may indicate increased risk for cardiovascular problems, while a lower ratio might suggest better metabolic balance. However, individual results depend on your overall health and medical history.
How Is the Test Performed?
A small blood sample is drawn from a vein, usually in your arm. The sample is processed to measure both methionine and homocysteine levels, then their ratio is calculated.
What Are Common Causes of Abnormal Results?
Elevated ratios could be linked to poor nutrition, certain medications (like folate or B vitamins), or underlying metabolic disorders. Lower ratios might be seen in individuals with healthy metabolic function or specific genetic variations.
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.
This test is primarily used as a screening tool to identify individuals at higher risk for cardiovascular disease or vascular complications. It can complement other tests, such as cholesterol or blood sugar checks, to provide a more complete picture of your health. Always discuss results with your healthcare provider, as they will interpret findings in the context of your medical history and symptoms.
Short name
Methionine-Homocysteine Ratio (Methg/Hcy Ratio)
Frequently asked questions
What does a high methionine-homocysteine ratio mean for my health?
Can I lower my methionine-homocysteine ratio with diet or supplements?
How often should I get 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