Vitamin B12
Measures vitamin B12 level—essential for nerve function, red blood cells, and energy. Common deficiency in vegetarians.
Test Information
Reports In
Same day (5-6 hours)
Parameters
1
Requisites
Blood Sample
Sample Type
Blood
Measures
Serum vitamin B12 (cobalamin) level—essential for DNA synthesis, red blood cell formation, and nerve function.
Identifies
Vitamin B12 deficiency (causing megaloblastic anemia, fatigue, numbness, tingling, memory issues), pernicious anemia, and malabsorption (celiac, gastric surgery).
What is the Vitamin B12 Test?
Vitamin B12 (Cobalamin) is essential for nerve function, red blood cell formation, and DNA synthesis. Deficiency is extremely common in India — particularly among vegetarians since B12 is found primarily in animal products. Even mild deficiency causes fatigue, tingling in hands and feet, and memory problems. Severe deficiency can cause irreversible nerve damage.
Why Should You Take This Test?
India has a large vegetarian population. B12 is mainly in animal products—deficiency is very common. Untreated deficiency causes irreversible nerve damage. Simple testing and supplementation (oral or injection) can prevent serious complications.
Who Should Get Tested?
Vegetarians & Vegans
B12 comes primarily from animal sources — plant-based diets are inherently deficient.
Elderly (50+)
B12 absorption decreases significantly with age.
Tingling or Numbness
Peripheral neuropathy from B12 deficiency.
Anemia Patients
B12 deficiency causes macrocytic anemia.
On Metformin
This common diabetes drug reduces B12 absorption.
Warning Signs — When Should You Get This Test?
Common Conditions Detected
Frequently Booked Together
Tests commonly ordered alongside Vitamin B12 for a complete picture
Folate
B12 and folate deficiencies often coexist and cause similar symptoms
CBC
Check for macrocytic anemia from B12 deficiency
Homocysteine
Rises with B12 deficiency — good confirmatory marker
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