A Vitamin B12 test checks the levels of Vitamin B12 (cobalamin) in blood. Vitamin B12 is vital for the health of nerve and blood cells and plays a key role in the production of deoxyribonucleic acid (DNA), the genetic material in all cells. Since our bodies cannot produce Vitamin B12 naturally, we must obtain it from dietary sources like meat, eggs, and dairy products.

In India, nearly 47% of the population is affected by Vitamin B12 deficiency, which may lead to macrocytic anaemia resulting in neuropathy. This might make your hands and feet tingle or go numb. Thus, undergoing a Vitamin B12 test in Mumbai is essential to prevent these complications and maintain good health.

Here are the key points regarding the Vitamin B12 blood test:

Prerequisites

There is no need to fast before taking the Vitamin B12 test.

Best Time to Get Tested

A Vitamin B12 test can be scheduled at any time of day.

Who Should Get a Vitamin B12 Test

Vitamin B12 deficiency can impact individuals of any age. Anyone experiencing symptoms such as weakness, nausea, or irritability should consider scheduling the test.

Cautions Before Taking Vitamin B12 Test

Some medications, like proton pump inhibitors, can affect the test results. Therefore, be sure to inform your doctor about any medications you are taking before the test.

If a complete blood count reveals large red blood cells, low haemoglobin levels, or abnormal white blood cells, your doctor might suggest a Vitamin B12 test. Additional reasons for needing this test include experiencing symptoms such as:

• Nausea, vomiting, or diarrhoea

• Severe fatigue or weakness

• Loss of appetite

• Tingling or numbness in hands and feet

• Weight loss

• Mouth or tongue pain

• Vision problems

• Difficulty walking or speaking

• Irritability

• Yellowish skin

• Mood and behaviour changes

• Depression

• Memory issues or confusion

Other factors that may necessitate a Vitamin B12 test include:

• Pregnancy, which increases the need for Vitamin B12 to support foetal development.

• Being over 70 years old, as older adults are more prone to Vitamin B12 deficiency due to decreased nutrient absorption.

• Following a vegan or vegetarian diet, as Vitamin B12 is naturally found in animal products.

• Taking medications that lower Vitamin B12 levels (e.g., drugs for diabetes or peptic ulcers).

• Digestive disorders like celiac disease or Crohn's disease, which hinder Vitamin B12 absorption.

• Having Sjögren's syndrome, this significantly increases the risk of deficiency.

• Excessive alcohol consumption, which can damage the digestive system and reduce Vitamin B12 levels.

• Undergoing treatment for malnutrition or Vitamin B12 deficiency, as the test can monitor treatment effectiveness.

Additionally, your doctor might recommend checking homocysteine levels, which can also indicate a Vitamin B12 deficiency. These tests help diagnose the deficiency and identify the underlying cause, aiding in treatment planning.

Normal Vitamin B12 Range

The normal range for Vitamin B12 is 239-931 pg/mL

Understanding Test Results

Low Levels

Low levels of Vitamin B12 may be a sign of a deficit brought on by:

• Hereditary illnesses such transcobalamin II deficiency.

• Dietary deficiencies, especially in vegetarians

• Fish tapeworm infection

• High homocysteine levels Lack of intrinsic factor or production of intrinsic antibodies (as in pernicious anaemia)

• Certain surgical procedures, such as weight loss surgeries

• Gastrointestinal conditions, like atrophic gastritis

• Conditions that impair vitamin absorption, including Crohn's disease, celiac disease, pancreatitis, and resected small bowel

Increased requirements during pregnancy, particularly in the final trimester, can also lead to reduced Vitamin B12 levels. Since Vitamin B12 and folate work together to support cell function, your doctor might also recommend testing your folate levels simultaneously.

High Levels

Elevated levels of Vitamin B12 are rare since excess amounts are usually excreted in urine. However, certain conditions can cause an increase in Vitamin B12 levels, including:

• Myelogenous or promyelocytic leukaemia

• Protein malnutrition

• Chronic kidney disease

• Congestive heart failure

• Polycythaemia vera

• Hepatocellular carcinoma

• Metastatic liver disease

• Drug-induced cholestasis

• Acute hepatitis

• Cirrhosis

If your Vitamin B12 test results are not normal, it is crucial to consult your doctor for further evaluation and interpretation.