Vitamin B12, Folate Profile

Vitamin B12, Folate Profile

Vitamin B12

B12 contains a mineral, cobalamin, and is sometimes referred to as cyancobalamin. The test is run on serum, usually in conjunction with folate (folic acid). B12 is a water-soluble vitamin. It is necessary for DNA and red blood cell synthesis, new cell growth, maintenance of nervous tissue and glucose metabolism. It is also one of the vitamins (along with B6 and folate) essential to convert homocysteine back to methionine. Decreased levels can cause anemia (pernicious anemia), fatigue, irritability, loss of appetite, labored breathing, constipation, heart palpitations, headache and "sore tongue." Some congenital defects have been linked to low B12 levels. It is found in liver, oysters, poultry, fish, clams, salmon and eggs. B12 tends to be low in vegans.

The RDA is 2.4 micro grams. A supplemental level is 3 to 1000 micrograms. There is no toxic dose listed for B12.

The methodology is an RIA method using a 57CO as a label and is performed on serum or plasma. The normal value established in our laboratory for B12 is 165 to 1100 pg/mL.

Specimen required is 1.0 mL of serum, protected from light.

Folate (Folic Acid, Folacin)

Folate is a member of the "B" vitamin family and is water-soluble. The test is usually run on serum in conjunction with B12. It is necessary for new cell growth, especially the lining of the G.I. tract, the surface of the tongue and in pregnancy. It helps mobilize fat from the liver, and is necessary for the synthesis of red and white blood cells. It serves as a precursor for nucleic acids and as a repair mechanism for DNA. It serves as a methyl donor and helps convert homocysteine back to methionine. Decreased levels can cause anemia (megaloblastic anemia), growth problems, birth defects (spinal bifida), fatigue, poor memory (Alzheimer's disease), sore tongue, digestive problems, toxemia of pregnancy, and an increased risk for strokes and heart attacks.

Folate is found in liver, salmon, eggs, whole wheat, asparagus, and green leafy vegetables. It is added to all cereal grains.

The RDA is 400 micrograms. A suggested supplemental level is 400 to 2000 micrograms. There is no toxic dose listed for folic acid.

Doctors who wish to order kits, please call our lab directly to set up an account before ordering. 316-684-7784

Process time: 5 to 7 business days

Process method: For Vitamin B12, the methodology is an RIA method using a 57CO as a label and is performed on serum or plasma.

CPT code: 82607; 82746

Special instructions: None

Rejection causes: Hemolysis

Patient prep: None

Specimen volume: 1 mL serum; light protected

Minimum volume: 0.4 mL

Collection container: SST or red-stopper tube

Transport container: Amber plastic transport tube

Transport instructions: Refrigerate or freeze

Normal values: The normal value established in our laboratory for B12 is 165 to 1100 pg/mL.