Description
WHAT IS A HOMOCYSTEINE LAB TEST?
The homocysteine test consists of a blood test that measures the level of homocysteine in the blood.
AM I REQUIRED TO FAST FOR THIS LAB TEST?
Yes. You must fast at least eight (8) hours prior to having your specimen collected.
WHAT IS THE PRICE OF A HOMOCYSTEINE LAB TEST?
$99.00
*Price may vary by location – contact your local ANY LAB TEST NOW®
HOW LONG WILL IT TAKE TO GET MY LAB TEST RESULTS?
Test results generally take between 24 to 72 business hours after your specimen is collected.
DESCRIPTION:
Homocysteine is an amino acid that is normally present in very small amounts in the blood. Normally the vitamins B6, B12, and folate quickly convert homocysteine to other products but when there is a deficiency of these vitamins leaves the amino acid in the blood at higher than normal levels. There is some evidence that excess homocysteine is linked to atherosclerosis allowing blood clots to form and causing damage to blood vessel walls.
Excess homocysteine is also found in people with a rare genetic disorder called homocystinuria caused by a dysfunctional enzyme that is required for metabolism. The buildup of this enzyme and homocysteine in infants can cause serious health issues including failure to thrive and people with the disease may develop heart or blood vessel diseases at an early age.
WHY DO I NEED MY HOMOCYSTEINE LEVEL CHECKED?
Information from this test can also be used in conjunction with other cardiovascular tests for people at high risk for stroke or heart attack. There has been a link between blood clots and elevated homocysteine levels. It has also been noted that people with elevated homocysteine levels may have twice the risk of coronary artery disease compared to those that have normal levels. This could be especially useful for those who have a history of cardiovascular disease but no symptoms. Your doctor may recommend a change in diet to include more foods that include B12 and folate and/or a vitamin supplement.
TEST DETAILS:
NORMAL RANGE:
Male: <11.4 umol/L
Female: <10.4 umol/L
WHAT TYPE OF PHYSICIAN SHOULD I SEE IF MY TEST RESULTS ARE OUT-OF-RANGE?
If your test results are out of normal range, you should consult with your primary care physician or a cardiologist.
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