Metabolite Profile: Methionine and Homocysteine (Serum/Plasma Concentrations)
This test measures the amounts of methionine and homocysteine in your blood, which are important for metabolism and may help assess risks related to heart health and certain genetic conditions.
["Your blood levels of methionine and homocysteine can provide insights into your metabolic health and potential risks for long-term conditions."]
Key facts at a glance
- LOINC
- 81626-4
- Short code
- MTX-PG3 RBC-sCnc
- Synonyms
- MTX-PG3 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 This Test Might Be Ordered
Your healthcare provider may recommend this test if you have a family history of heart disease, stroke, or certain genetic disorders. It could also be used to monitor conditions like liver disease, kidney problems, or as part of routine metabolic screening, especially if you have symptoms like fatigue, numbness, or unexplained bruising.
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 it involves drawing blood from a vein. Stay hydrated unless instructed otherwise. Avoid smoking or consuming alcohol for a few hours before the blood draw.
How the Test Works
A small sample of your blood is collected and analyzed using advanced laboratory techniques to measure the precise amounts of methionine and homocysteine. These measurements help assess your metabolic health and identify potential risks.
What the Results Mean
High levels of homocysteine are often linked to increased risks of heart disease and blood vessel damage, while elevated methionine levels may indicate metabolic imbalances. Your results will be compared to general reference ranges provided by your healthcare provider to guide further action.
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.
◆Associated findings1
Short name
Methionine and Homocysteine Levels
Frequently asked questions
High homocysteine levels are associated with an increased risk of cardiovascular diseases, including heart attacks and strokes. Elevated methionine levels may suggest underlying metabolic disorders or deficiencies in certain vitamins (like B6, B9, or B12), which are essential for breaking down these compounds.
What causes elevated homocysteine or methionine levels?
How long does it take to get my results?
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