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 indicate vitamin B12 or folate deficiencies or genetic metabolic issues."]
Key facts at a glance
- LOINC
- 71879-1
- Short code
- MetHgb MFr.DF BldV
- Synonyms
- MetHgb MFr.DF BldV
- 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, weakness, or neurological issues, or if you have conditions such as vitamin deficiencies, kidney disease, or unexplained anemia. It’s also used to monitor metabolic disorders in newborns or those with inherited genetic conditions.
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 test if instructed. Bring any medications you’re taking, as some may affect results.
How the Test Works
A blood sample is drawn from a vein in your arm. The sample is sent to a lab, where it’s analyzed using a specialized method to measure methylmalonic acid levels.
What the Results Mean
High levels of methylmalonic acid may suggest vitamin B12 or folate deficiency, kidney disease, or certain genetic metabolic disorders. Low levels are less common but could indicate other conditions. Your doctor will interpret results in the context of your symptoms and medical history.
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 (Serum/Plasma)
Frequently asked questions
When might I get this test?
What does a high or low result mean?
Do I need to prepare differently if I’m pregnant?
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