Sample type: Serum
Test name: Vitamin B12 a.k.a. cobalamin, B12
Condition / Indication: Determination of B12 level. DO NOT send on patients on B12 therapy.
Special precautions & notes: None.
Reference range: B12 <145ng/L: likely deficiency, commence investigation & treatment; 145-180ng/L: possible deficiency. If clinical findings suggest deficiency consider a trial of therapy and assessment of response (see local guidance). Definite indications for repletion therapy are neurological (e.g. cognitive impairment, peripheral neuropathy) or haematological (e.g. macrocytic anaemia, high MCV) abnormalities; >180ng/L: deficiency syndrome is not likely to be present; >914ng/L: High serum Vitamin B12. If not due to vitamin B12 supplements or repletion therapy, consider liver disease or a myeloproliferative disorder (which can be excluded by a normal full blood count)
Container: Serum (Gold top)
Ideal volume (mL): 5 mL
Discipline: Clinical Biochemistry
Section: Automated Laboratory
Turnaround time: 3 days