Methylmalonic Acid (MMA) in Serum/Plasma (Quantitative)
This test measures the amount of methylmalonic acid, a breakdown product of certain amino acids, in your blood. It helps diagnose and monitor conditions affecting metabolism.
["Methylmalonic acid levels can indicate metabolic disorders or vitamin deficiencies."]
Key facts at a glance
- LOINC
- 46245-7
- Short code
- MTB pncA pyr res mut Islt/Spm
- Synonyms
- MTB pncA pyr res mut Islt/Spm
- Category
- chemistry
- Sample
- serum
- Container
- Red-top tube (SST)
- Units
- N/A
- Fasting
- false
- Population
- adult
- Sex
- all
- Age range
- 18–65 years
- Method
- molgen
- 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 Is Done
Your healthcare provider may order this test if you have symptoms of a metabolic disorder, such as unexplained fatigue, muscle weakness, or neurological issues. It may also be used to check for conditions like vitamin B12 deficiency or inherited metabolic diseases that disrupt how your body breaks down certain nutrients.
What to Expect Before the Test
No special preparation is usually needed, but you may be asked to fast for a few hours before the blood draw if your test involves a specific timing (e.g., 24-hour urine collection). Bring any medications or supplements you’re taking to your appointment.
What the Test Involves
A healthcare professional will draw blood from a vein in your arm. You may feel a small pinch, but it usually doesn’t cause discomfort. The blood sample is then sent to a lab for analysis.
Possible Results and Interpretation
Results are compared to a reference range specific to your lab. Elevated levels may suggest metabolic disorders, vitamin deficiencies, or other conditions affecting amino acid metabolism. Your doctor will discuss the results in the context of your symptoms and medical history.
Clinical interpretation
How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.
High MMA levels often point to conditions like methylmalonic aciduria, a group of rare inherited disorders that interfere with energy production in cells. It can also be linked to vitamin B12 or folate deficiencies, which can cause similar metabolic disturbances. Early detection and treatment can improve outcomes, so this test is critical for diagnosing these conditions promptly.
Short name
MMA Level
Frequently asked questions
What causes elevated MMA levels?
What if my test results are abnormal?
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