This test is aslo known as Homocysteine Cardiac Risk Test, Homocysteine Blood Test & Plasma Total Homocysteine.
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The purpose of homocysteine blood test is to measure the amount of homocysteine in your body & to diagnose vitamin B6, B12 & B9 (B9 is also known as folate or folic acid) deficiency which are needed in breaking down homocysteine in the body. Due to deficiency of these vitamins or nutrients, your homocysteine levels can become elevated and as a result places you at a higher risk of CVD.
The homocysteine test evaluates your blood levels of this naturally occurring amino acid that serves in the body as an intermediate in the metabolism of methionine and cysteine. The amino acid is typically broken down in the blood into other substances which are needed by your body. Thus raised levels normally specify a deficiency of vitamin B12, B6, or folic acid (B9) because these vitamins help the body to quickly process homocysteine.
This test is ordered when your physician believe that you may have a deficiency of vitamin B12, B6, or B9( folate or folic acid) because these vitamins help the body process homocysteine. Signs and symptoms are initially subtle and nonspecific. If you have an early deficiency, you may be diagnosed before experiencing any overt symptoms. Other affected people may experience a variety of mild to severe symptoms that can include:
Diarrhea
Dizziness
Fatigue, weakness
Loss of appetite
Paleness
Rapid heart rate
Shortness of breath
Sore tongue and mouth
Tingling, numbness, and/or burning in the feet, hands, arms, and legs (B12 deficiency can cause neuropathy)
Homocysteine testing may be ordered as part of assessing your risk of cardiovascular disease, depending on the individual’s age and other risk factors. It may also be ordered following a heart attack or stroke to help guide treatment.
Patient should fast for atleast 8 hours prior to sample collection.
Normally, no special preparation is required for a homocysteine test. However the doctor will tell you if you have to stop taking any medications or supplements before this test.
Dummy Test
Type the specimeny type like blood, urine or any other specimen required.
Sample report in a format
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