Vitamin C (Ascorbic Acid) in Serum or Plasma by Turbidimetry

Why Is This Test Done?

Your healthcare provider may order this test to check for vitamin C deficiency, monitor vitamin C levels after treatment, or evaluate conditions like scurvy, malabsorption syndromes, or certain cancers that may deplete vitamin C stores. It can also help assess how well you’re absorbing nutrients from food.

What Does the Test Involve?

A blood sample is drawn from a vein, usually in your arm. The sample is processed to measure vitamin C levels using a method called turbidimetry, which detects changes in light passing through the sample to estimate the vitamin’s concentration.

What Are Possible Results?

Results are typically reported as a mass concentration (e.g., milligrams per deciliter). While reference ranges vary by lab, very low levels may suggest deficiency, while very high levels could indicate certain medications, infections, or metabolic conditions.

What Does a Low Vitamin C Level Mean?

Low vitamin C levels may indicate vitamin C deficiency, which can cause fatigue, gum disease, slow wound healing, or increased infection risk. It can also be linked to conditions like Crohn’s disease, celiac disease, or other malabsorption issues.