Homocysteine

Results

A homocysteine test measures the amount of the amino acid homocysteine in the blood.

Results are ready in 24 hours.

Normal

Normal values may vary from lab to lab.

Homocysteine
Normal:

0.54–2.3 mg/L

4–17 micromoles per liter (mcmol/L)

Many conditions can affect homocysteine levels. Your doctor will discuss any significant abnormal results with you in relation to your symptoms and medical history.

High values

High values of homocysteine may be caused by:

  • Not getting enough folic acid, vitamin B6, or vitamin B12 in your diet.
  • Other conditions or diseases, such as homocystinuria, kidney disease, hypothyroidism, Alzheimer's disease, or certain cancers.
  • Using too much alcohol.
  • Your sex. Homocysteine levels are normally higher in men than in women.
  • Age. Homocysteine levels get higher as you get older.

Low values

Low values of homocysteine may be caused by some medicines or vitamins such as daily folic acid, vitamin B12, or niacin.


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Author: Robin Parks, MS Last Updated: February 13, 2009
Medical Review: Caroline S. Rhoads, MD - Internal Medicine
Brian Leber, MDCM, FRCPC - Hematology

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Topic Contents
 Test Overview
 Why It Is Done
 How To Prepare
 How It Is Done
 How It Feels
 Risks
Arrow PointerResults
 What Affects the Test
 What To Think About
 References
 Credits