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Methylmalonic Acid, Serum or Plasma (organic acid profile)

Published: August 9, 2026Updated: August 16, 2026

This test measures the level of methylmalonic acid (MMA) in your blood. MMA is a breakdown product of certain amino acids and can indicate metabolic issues.

Quick summary

["High MMA levels may signal vitamin B12 or folate deficiency or genetic metabolic disorders."]

Medically reviewed by WellAlly Editorial TeamLast reviewed August 16, 2026Editorial policy

Key facts at a glance

LOINC
37228-4
Short code
MR TMJ-Bl
Synonyms
MR TMJ-Bl
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 doctor may recommend this test if you have symptoms like fatigue, weakness, or neurological problems, or if you have a family history of metabolic disorders. It’s also used to monitor conditions like vitamin B12 deficiency or certain inherited metabolic diseases.

What to Expect Before the Test

No special preparation is needed, but you may be asked to fast for 8–12 hours before the test if it’s part of a broader organic acid profile. Bring any medications you’re taking to your doctor’s office.

What the Test Involves

A healthcare professional will draw blood from a vein in your arm. The sample is sent to a lab for analysis. Results are typically available within 1–3 business days.

What the Results Mean

Elevated MMA levels may suggest vitamin deficiencies, mitochondrial disorders, or genetic conditions like methylmalonic aciduria. Low levels are less commonly associated with clinical concerns.

Clinical interpretation

How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.

◆Associated findings1

Short name

MMA

Frequently asked questions

What causes MMA levels to be high?
High MMA can result from vitamin B12 or folate deficiencies, certain medications (like certain antibiotics or anticonvulsants), or inherited metabolic disorders. Lifestyle factors like poor diet or malabsorption may also play a role.
What if my MMA levels are normal but I still feel unwell?
Normal MMA levels don’t rule out other conditions. If you have persistent symptoms, discuss them with your doctor. They may order additional tests or check for other metabolic markers.
How often should I get this test?
Your doctor will determine frequency based on your health status. If you have a known metabolic disorder, tests may be scheduled regularly to monitor progression or treatment effectiveness.
  1. 1
    MedlinePlus — Laboratory TestsSource
  2. 2
    Lab Tests OnlineSource
  3. 3
    Mayo Clinic — Tests & ProceduresSource

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.

Medical Disclaimer

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