Methylmalonic acid (serum/plasma)
This test measures the level of methylmalonic acid in your blood, a compound that can help identify certain metabolic disorders.
["Methylmalonic acid levels may signal vitamin B12 or folate deficiencies or inherited metabolic issues."]
Key facts at a glance
- LOINC
- 71882-5
- Short code
- MetHgb MFr.DF BldA
- Synonyms
- MetHgb MFr.DF BldA
- 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 doctor may recommend this test if you have symptoms like fatigue, weakness, or neurological problems, or if you have conditions like vitamin B12 deficiency, folate deficiency, or unexplained anemia. It may also be used in newborn screening or to monitor metabolic disorders.
What to Expect Before the Test
No special preparation is usually needed, but you may be asked to fast for 8–12 hours before the draw if your doctor specifies it. Bring any medications you’re taking, as some may affect results.
What the Test Involves
A blood sample is taken from a vein in your arm by a healthcare professional. The sample is sent to a lab for analysis using a specialized method to detect methylmalonic acid levels.
What the Results Mean
High levels of methylmalonic acid may indicate vitamin B12 or folate deficiency, certain inherited metabolic diseases, or kidney problems. Low levels are less common but could signal other conditions. Your doctor will interpret results in the context of your overall health.
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.
Elevated methylmalonic acid is a key biomarker for vitamin B12 deficiency (cobalamin deficiency) or methylmalonic aciduria, a rare inherited metabolic disorder. It helps diagnose or monitor conditions like homocystinuria, propionic acidemia, or mitochondrial disorders. Low levels are less frequently significant but may warrant further investigation for rare genetic or metabolic causes.
Short name
MMA
Frequently asked questions
How long does it take to get my results?
Can I eat or drink before this test?
Does this test require fasting?
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