Homocysteine is an amino acid whose elevated level is associated with cardiovascular risk factors and B vitamin status. A test provides insight, with personal explanation from our doctors.
Interpreted by BIG-registered doctors
Achtergrond
Homocysteine is an amino acid that arises during the breakdown of methionine, a protein building block from food. Under normal circumstances, homocysteine is rapidly broken down with the help of vitamins B6, B12, and folic acid (B11). When this breakdown is insufficient, homocysteine accumulates in the blood.
Elevated homocysteine can arise from a deficiency of B vitamins, reduced kidney function, an underactive thyroid, certain medications, or a genetic variant (such as MTHFR). An elevated level is associated with an increased risk of cardiovascular disease and is sometimes measured as a supplement to the standard cholesterol profile.
In het kort
Amino acid
Intermediate in protein metabolism
B vitamins
B6, B12, and folic acid regulate breakdown
Vascular
Associated with cardiovascular disease
Fasting (12h)
Required for a reliable measurement
Veelvoorkomende redenen om te meten
Hieronder enkele situaties waarin een meting van Homocysteine inzicht kan bieden.
A test gives insight into this marker, which is not included in standard check-ups.
With cardiovascular disease at a young age in the family, homocysteine is sometimes measured as an additional cardiovascular marker.
Elevated homocysteine can indicate a functional deficiency of B12 or folic acid, even when those blood values fall within the reference range.
Those seeking a broader picture of their cardiovascular risk factors sometimes add homocysteine alongside cholesterol, ApoB, and Lp(a).
With multiple unexplained miscarriages, homocysteine is sometimes measured as part of a more extensive screening.
Those using B vitamin supplements to influence a previously elevated homocysteine can periodically re-test.
Wat betekent uw uitslag
Homocysteine is measured in micromoles per litre (µmol/L). Interpretation of your value is carried out against the reference ranges of the laboratory and your personal context.
A homocysteine level below the normal threshold is rare and is generally not a cause for concern. A low value is sometimes seen with good intake of B vitamins through diet or supplements.
Homocysteine within the reference range gives a reassuring picture for this marker. It suggests that homocysteine breakdown is proceeding well and that your B vitamin status is adequate for this purpose, a favourable sign for this specific cardiovascular risk factor.
Elevated homocysteine may indicate a deficiency of vitamin B6, B12, or folic acid, reduced kidney function, hypothyroidism, certain medications, or a genetic variant. Our doctor provides explanation and context regarding next steps, this usually begins with attention to B vitamin status.
Hoe wij uw uitslag interpreteren
Our doctors interpret your homocysteine level against the reference ranges and your personal context, age, family history, B vitamin status, and any other relevant factors.
Related tests
A single marker gives one perspective. For a broader picture you can combine Homocysteine with a theme package or related markers.
Veelgestelde vragen
Yes, for a reliable measurement you must fast for 12 hours. Drink water only during this period. Food, especially protein-rich food, temporarily raises the homocysteine level.
Cholesterol is the best-known cardiovascular marker, but does not explain all cardiovascular disease. Homocysteine is seen as an additional risk marker, particularly with a family history where cholesterol is not evidently elevated.
When there is a deficiency of folic acid, B12, or B6, supplementation often leads to a reduction in homocysteine. With a normal B vitamin status, supplementation usually has little additional effect.
Homocysteine requires a special, sensitive measurement method and a specific blood tube with rapid processing. The price of €159 includes all blood draw costs and the doctor's interpretation.
No, homocysteine is not included in standard GP investigations or most general blood tests. It is a specialist marker that is usually tested on request.
Vitamins B6, B12, and folic acid are cofactors in the breakdown of homocysteine. With a deficiency of any of these vitamins, homocysteine accumulates. An elevated homocysteine can therefore signal a functional B vitamin deficiency, even when the direct blood value of those vitamins appears normal.
A single measurement is sufficient for initial insight. With follow-up of supplementation or with an elevated baseline, re-testing after 3 to 6 months is common.
You will receive a PDF report with your value and explanation. What you do with it, such as discussing it with your GP or cardiologist, remains entirely your choice.
In the Health Guide
For €159 you receive your homocysteine level including personal explanation from a doctor, typically within 2 business days. No referral required.
Order Homocysteine for €159 →Want to test multiple markers at once?
Combine Homocysteine with other markers via Bloodworks Select. Blood draw costs are waived from €225.
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