VITAMIN B12 Detail

The Vitamin B12 test measures the level of Vitamin B12 (cobalamin) in the blood. Vitamin B12 is a vital nutrient that plays a key role in the production of red blood cells, nerve health, and DNA synthesis. Deficiency of this vitamin can lead to anemia, fatigue, nerve damage, and cognitive issues.

Low B12 levels may result from poor dietary intake, especially in vegetarians, or due to malabsorption issues such as pernicious anemia, intestinal disorders (like Crohn's disease), or long-term use of certain medications (e.g., antacids or metformin). Measuring B12 levels helps diagnose the cause of symptoms like tingling in hands and feet, weakness, memory issues, or chronic fatigue.

Clinical Indications:

• Evaluation of anemia or fatigue

• Neurological symptoms like tingling, numbness, or balance issues

• Memory loss or cognitive decline

• Weakness or unexplained tiredness

• Monitoring of B12 levels in vegetarians or bariatric patients

• Follow-up for malabsorption or gastrointestinal disorders