Methylmalonic Acid (Serum or Plasma)
This test measures the level of methylmalonic acid, a breakdown product of certain amino acids in your body. It helps identify conditions affecting metabolism, especially in cases where vitamin B12 or folate deficiencies may be suspected.
["Methylmalonic acid levels can signal metabolic disorders or vitamin deficiencies that may require medical attention."]
Key facts at a glance
- LOINC
- 71880-9
- Short code
- MetHgb MFr.DF BldMV
- Synonyms
- MetHgb MFr.DF BldMV
- 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 symptoms like fatigue, weakness, or neurological issues that could be linked to metabolic problems. It’s also used to monitor conditions like vitamin B12 deficiency, certain genetic disorders, or kidney disease.
What to Expect Before the Test
No special preparation is needed for this blood test. You may have a small needle inserted into your arm to draw a blood sample. If you’re taking vitamin B12 supplements, let your provider know, as this could affect results.
What the Results Mean
Elevated levels of methylmalonic acid may suggest vitamin deficiencies, genetic metabolic disorders, or other conditions affecting how your body processes certain nutrients. Lower-than-normal levels might indicate over-supplementation or other metabolic issues.
Common Conditions Linked to This Test
High MMA levels are often seen in vitamin B12 or folate deficiencies, methylmalonic aciduria (a rare genetic disorder), or conditions like kidney disease. Low levels can sometimes occur with overconsumption of certain supplements or in rare metabolic syndromes.
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.
◆Associated findings1
Short name
MMA
Frequently asked questions
What causes elevated methylmalonic acid levels?
How long does it take to get results from this test?
Can I eat or drink before 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