Homocysteine

Quest Diagnostics

Sample type: Serum

Requires fasting: No

Phlebotomy required

Details

An elevated concentration of homocysteine is an independent risk factor for cardiovascular disease. When used in conjunction with methylmalonic acid (MMA), these tests are useful to diagnose and monitor vitamin B12 (cobalamin) and folic acid deficiency and are often useful in evaluating macrocytosis (an elevated MCV, an erythrocytic index).

Biomarker summary

Homocysteine

Additional details

Estimated days for results: Results should be available in 2 - 5 business days after the sample is collected

Homocysteine Test
This test measures the level of homocysteine in your blood, which is important because high levels can increase your risk for heart disease. It's often used together with a methylmalonic acid (MMA) test to check for vitamin B12 (cobalamin) and folic acid deficiencies. These deficiencies can lead to anemia and are also checked when someone has macrocytosis, a condition where red blood cells are larger than normal.

What patients is this test right for?

This test may be recommended if you are at risk for heart disease or have symptoms that suggest a vitamin B12 or folic acid deficiency.

Symptoms of Vitamin B12 or Folic Acid Deficiency:

Tiredness
Weakness
Pale or yellowish skin
Heart palpitations
Shortness of breath
Loss of appetite
Weight loss
Confusion or memory problems

What type of sample is required for this test?

1 mL serum.
A blood draw is needed.

Test Resources:

For more information, consult your healthcare provider.

Average sample processing time

2–5 business days

Reference range

Age Male (umol/L) Female (umol/L)
0-1 years Not Established Not Established
2-9 years ≤7.6 ≤7.6
10-14 years ≤9.7 ≤8.4
15-17 years ≤11.3 ≤10.2
18-29 years ≤12.9 ≤10.9
30-49 years ≤13.5 ≤11.0
>49 years ≤15.2 ≤13.4

Health categories

Patient instructions

Blood Draw Options with Fullscript
Fullscript offers several convenient phlebotomy options to complete your lab testing:

Quest Diagnostics Patient Service Centers (PSC)

Location: Visit a nearby Quest Diagnostics Patient Service Center.
Cost: $10 sample collection fee (paid during lab order checkout).
Scheduling: Schedule your appointment here. Appointments are recommended to reduce wait times. Walk-ins are accepted, but may experience delays. Aim to arrive 10 minutes before your appointment.
Collection Instructions:

Bring a valid ID.
Bring your digital or printed requisition form, available in the Labs tab of your Fullscript account.

Check-in: Scan the QR code from your confirmation email or follow kiosk instructions.
More Info: Quest Diagnostics blood draw guide

Getlabs Mobile Phlebotomy

Location: Sample collection at your home or office.
Cost: $85 sample collection fee (paid during lab order checkout).
Availability: Available in most locations – enter your ZIP code during checkout to confirm.
Scheduling: Schedule your appointment here through your Fullscript account.
Collection Instructions: