Vitamin B12 Immunoassay (Serum or Plasma)
This test measures antibodies in your blood that may indicate an immune response against vitamin B12, a crucial nutrient for nerve function and red blood cell production.
["Assesses potential autoimmune reaction to vitamin B12, which could affect nutrient absorption and health."]
Key facts at a glance
- LOINC
- 96297-7
- Short code
- Vit B12 IgE Qn
- Synonyms
- Vit B12 IgE Qn
- Category
- chemistry
- Sample
- serum
- Container
- Red-top tube (SST)
- Units
- N/A
- Ref low
- 200
- Ref high
- 900
- Fasting
- false
- Population
- adult
- Sex
- all
- Age range
- 18–65 years
- 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, numbness, or tingling in your hands and feet, or if you have conditions like pernicious anemia or autoimmune disorders. It may also be used to investigate unexplained vitamin B12 deficiencies or to monitor immune-related vitamin B12 issues.
What to Expect Before the Test
No special preparation is usually needed. You may have blood drawn from a vein in your arm. If you’re on blood thinners, let your provider know before the test.
What the Results Mean
Positive results suggest the presence of antibodies against vitamin B12, which could interfere with its normal function. Further testing, including vitamin B12 levels, may be needed to understand the full picture.
Common Symptoms Linked to This Test
Symptoms like fatigue, weakness, or nerve-related issues may prompt this test, as they can sometimes be linked to an immune response against vitamin B12.
Reference range
NCBI: Vitamin B12 200-900 pg/mLN/A
No special preparation usually required. Stay well hydrated. Inform your healthcare provider of all medications and supplements you are taking.
Clinical interpretation
How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.
◆Associated findings1
Short name
Vitamin B12 Antibody Screening
Frequently asked questions
Why might my doctor want to check for vitamin B12 antibodies?
What does a positive result mean for my health?
Can this test be done at home?
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