Synonyms
Vitamin B12; Cobalamin Deficiency
Specimen Type
Serum or Plasma
Performing Lab
Quest forwards to LabCorp (TSO)
Epic ID
Other Reference Test
Lab Test Days
Monday, Wednesday, Friday
Standard TAT
4 Days
Collection Information
Specimen Required
2-4 mL Blood
Container Type
Red Top (No Additive)
Collection Instructions
Plasma collected in a heparin (green-top) tube is also acceptable.
Processing Information - Lab Use Only
Transport Temperature
Refrigerate-OK/Frozen-OK/Ambient-OK
Specimen Stability
Room Temp: 14 Days; Refrigerated: 14 Days; Frozen: 14 Days
Test Volume Required
2 mL Serum or Plasma
Minimum Test Volume
1 mL Serum or Plasma
Processing Instructions
Centrifuge and separate within one hour of collection. TSO required.
Included Tests
Cystathionine, Homocysteine, 2-Methylcitric acid and Methylmalonic acid
Comments
Useful for diagnosing and distinguishing between B12 and folate deficiency. Elevated levels of methylmalonic acid provide an early indication of cobalamin (B12) deficiency. LabCorp test code: 706960. Requires TSO form.
CPT Codes
82136, 83918
Revised
03-20-17
Initials
SL