Methylmalonic Acid (Serum/Plasma)
This test measures the level of methylmalonic acid in your blood, a substance produced when certain amino acids break down. It helps diagnose conditions affecting metabolism, particularly vitamin B12 or folate deficiencies.
["Methylmalonic acid levels can signal metabolic disorders or vitamin deficiencies that may require medical attention."]
Key facts at a glance
- LOINC
- 81628-0
- Short code
- MTX-PG1 RBC-sCnc
- Synonyms
- MTX-PG1 RBC-sCnc
- Category
- chemistry
- Sample
- whole-blood
- Container
- Lavender-top (EDTA)
- Units
- N/A
- Ref low
- 4.2
- Ref high
- 5.9
- Critical range
- 2 N/A – 7 N/A
- Fasting
- false
- Population
- adult
- Sex
- all
- Age range
- 18–65 years
- CPT
- 85041
- SNOMED
- 900000000000003001
- 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 vitamin deficiencies or metabolic disorders. It’s also used to monitor conditions like pernicious anemia or inherited metabolic diseases.
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 blood, similar to other routine blood tests. If you’re on a vitamin B12 or folate supplement, let your provider know before testing.
What the Results Mean
Elevated levels of methylmalonic acid often suggest vitamin B12 or folate deficiency, kidney disease, or certain genetic disorders. Lower-than-normal levels may indicate other metabolic issues, but results should be interpreted by your healthcare provider in the context of your overall health.
Common Conditions Linked to Abnormal Results
High MMA levels are commonly associated with vitamin B12 deficiency (pernicious anemia), folate deficiency, or inherited metabolic disorders like methylmalonic aciduria. Low levels may be linked to conditions affecting folate metabolism or rare genetic disorders.
Reference range
Adult males: 4.2-5.9; Females: 3.8-5.1 x 10^12/LN/A
No special preparation required. Stay well hydrated.
Clinical interpretation
How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.
Clinical Significance: When to Follow Up
Short name
MMA
Frequently asked questions
If your MMA levels are elevated, your doctor may recommend additional tests, such as vitamin B12 and folate levels, or further evaluation for metabolic disorders. Follow-up may include dietary changes, supplements, or monitoring for symptoms of underlying conditions.
What if I Have a Recent Illness or Medication?
How Often Should I Get 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 17, 2026. · Read our editorial policy