Methylmalonic Acid (Serum or Plasma)
This test measures the level of methylmalonic acid, a breakdown product of certain amino acids, in your blood. It helps assess how well your body is processing these nutrients.
["Methylmalonic acid levels can indicate vitamin B12 or folate deficiencies or metabolic disorders."]
Key facts at a glance
- LOINC
- 30692-8
- Short code
- MR LE
- Synonyms
- MR LE
- Category
- chemistry
- Sample
- serum
- Container
- Red-top tube (SST)
- Units
- N/A
- Fasting
- false
- Population
- adult
- Sex
- all
- Age range
- 18–65 years
- Method
- mr
- Specimen volume
- 5 mL
- Stability
- Room temperature: 4h, Refrigerated: 24h, Frozen: 7d
- Hemolysis max
- 500
- Lipemia max
- 1000
- Icterus max
- 500
- 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 they suspect a vitamin deficiency (such as B12 or folate) or metabolic disorders like mitochondrial diseases or homocystinuria.
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 lab requires it. Bring any medications or supplements you’re taking to discuss with your provider.
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.
Possible Results and Next Steps
Results are compared to reference ranges for your age and health status. High levels may suggest vitamin deficiencies or metabolic disorders, while low levels could indicate other conditions like kidney disease or certain genetic disorders. Your provider will discuss findings with you.
Clinical interpretation
How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.
Elevated levels of methylmalonic acid often point to vitamin B12 or folate deficiencies, which can impair red blood cell production and nerve function. It may also signal metabolic disorders like methylmalonic acidemia, a rare genetic condition affecting metabolism. Low levels can sometimes indicate kidney issues or other metabolic disturbances, though this is less common.
Short name
MMA
Frequently asked questions
What causes elevated methylmalonic acid levels?
How long does it take to get results?
Can I take supplements to lower methylmalonic acid levels?
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