Select Location

Homocysteine levels

Dr. Abhishtita MudunuriLast Updated on 21st March 2022

Homocysteine is an amino acid present in your blood. Vitamins such as B12, B6, and folate break down homocysteine into other amino acids essential for protein synthesis, control inflammation, and liver health. Hence, high homocysteine levels in your blood mean that you may have vitamin deficiencies. Furthermore, the test evaluates your risk of developing cardiovascular diseases and stroke.

What is a Homocysteine level test used for?What is included in the Homocysteine level test?Procedure for the Homocysteine level test How to prepare for a Homocysteine level test? Things to consider after the Homocysteine level test is complete How much does the Homocysteine level test cost?What do abnormal Homocysteine levels indicate? Why book a Homocysteine level test?Frequently Asked Questions

Request a Call Back

Call us:

+91 80619 70525

What is a Homocysteine level test used for?

The homocysteine level test is used to determine:

Deficiency of vitamins B6, B9, and B12.
High risk of developing heart problems

The test is also used to:

Monitor patients undergoing heart treatments
Diagnose homocystinuria, which is a rare inherited disorder in newborns

Screen individuals with a family history of cardiovascular diseases

What is included in the Homocysteine level test?

The homocysteine level blood test measures the amount of homocysteine in your blood.

Procedure for the Homocysteine level test

The lab technician from MFine will arrive at your doorstep at the chosen time slot and collect your blood sample for the Homocysteine level test.

Book a Homocysteine level test to check your Vitamin B12 level!

How to prepare for a Homocysteine level test?

To prepare for the Homocysteine level test, you need to fast for 8 to 12 hours. You may drink only water during the fasting period. Do not eat or drink anything else during this time.

Things to consider after the Homocysteine level test is complete

After the test is complete, your results will be sent to you. The report will contain the reference ranges for normal homocysteine levels. If your homocysteine levels are high, there could be various other factors such as age, gender, smoking, and use of alcohol that contribute to an increase in your homocysteine levels. Therefore, it is advisable to consult with your physician, who will interpret the results and suggest treatments if required.

How much does the Homocysteine level test cost?

The cost of the homocysteine level blood test starts at Rs. 800. It may go up to Rs. 1200 in some cities.

*Disclaimer: The value varies based on location, time, and your preferred lab partner.

How long does it take to get the results for the Homocysteine level test?

You can expect to get the results for the homocysteine level test within 24 to 48 hours after the sample is collected. However, in some instances, depending on the location, medical advice, and preferred lab partner, it may take longer.

What do abnormal Homocysteine levels indicate?

Abnormal or high levels of homocysteine in the blood may mean:

You are not getting sufficient vitamin B12, B6, or folic acid in your diet
You could be at a higher risk of heart disease

If the levels of homocysteine in your blood are high, it does not necessarily mean that you have a medical condition that needs attention. The following factors can affect your test results:

Age – Homocysteine levels can get higher with age
Gender – Men usually have higher homocysteine levels than women
Alcohol use and smoking can lead to higher homocysteine levels in the blood.

Disclaimer: Please consult with your doctor to interpret the test reports.

Is Homocysteine level a definitive test?

No. Your homocysteine levels could be high for various reasons. If your healthcare provider suspects that you could be at risk for cardiovascular diseases, they may prescribe more tests for confirmation.

How to read the Homocysteine level report?

The normal range for a homocysteine level is less than 15 micromoles per Litre (mcmol/L)

Higher levels include:

Moderate (15 – 30 mcmol/L)
Intermediate (30 – 100 mcmol/L)
Severe (greater than 100 mcmol/L)

Item	Normal Range
Homocysteine (mcmol/L)	3 – 12 ( Adult Female) 6 – 15 ( Adult Male )
Vitamin B12 (pg/mL)	190 – 950
Folate ( ng/mL)	2.7 – 17.0

Results may vary based on your age, gender, and health history. Your doctor will interpret your test results and suggest further treatments if required.

Book a homocysteine test to check your Vitamin B9 level!

Why book a Homocysteine level test?

To measure the levels of homocysteine in the blood
To identify deficiencies of vitamins B6, B9, and B12
To determine your risk for cardiovascular diseases
To monitor the efficiency of any heart treatments
To diagnose homocystinuria
To screen individuals with a family history of cardiovascular diseases

Homocysteine level test at home – How does it work?

The homocysteine level test is just like any other blood test. A lab technician visits your home when you book your tests through the MFine app. The lab technician first cleans the arm and then inserts a syringe into a vein. The required amount of blood is then taken into a vial. The lab technician then removes the needle and places cotton wool or a bandage over the prick.

Are there any risks involved with the Homocysteine level test?

The risks associated with a blood test are minimal. You may have pain or bruising at the spot where the needle was pricked, infection, or feel light-headed. However, most symptoms disappear quickly.

What can affect the results for the Homocysteine level test?

Many factors may affect the levels of homocysteine in your blood:

Age – The homocysteine levels in your blood may increase with age
Gender – Generally, men tend to have higher homocysteine levels in blood compared to women
Smoking and alcohol use – The homocysteine levels are higher in individuals who smoke and consume alcohol

Book a homocysteine level test to check your folate level!

Our Trusted Lab Partners for Homocysteine levels

MFine Diagnostics

Starting at

₹1350

Wellness Pathcare

Starting at

₹1350

Thyrocare

Starting at

₹1350

For further assistance

Call to book your diagnostic test

Call 08061931415

Get a callback from MFine

Call Me Back

Frequently Asked Questions | FAQs

Is the lab technician coming for the homocysteine level test sample collection vaccinated?

Yes. Our lab technicians are fully vaccinated. Further, they also ensure safety by wearing mask gloves and frequently sanitising themselves during the sample collection

Does MFine provide the interpretation for the results along with the reports?

Yes, MFine provides the interpretation for the result and the reports. You can also avail a free medical consultation with a doctor to understand your reports accurately. The doctor will also advise and prescribe medicines, if required, based on the results.

How can I download my homocysteine level test report?

Login to MFine
Go to your profile
Click on Attachment and Reports
Click on Lab Report
Download the report

Are there any discount offers running on the homocysteine level test?

Usually, you can avail up to a 50% discount on the homocysteine level test through MFine. However, the discount and test price may vary based on lab partner and location.

How do I know if I need a homocysteine level test?

You may need to take a homocysteine level test if you are experiencing the following symptoms associated with vitamin B12 deficiency:

Weakness
Fatigue
Tingling in your feet or hands

Symptoms related to anaemia also need the homocysteine level test. Get your homocysteine level checked if you experience symptoms related to anaemia such as:

Pale skin
Shortness of breath
Headache
Dizziness

Also if you have a strong family history of cardiovascular disorders or stroke especially at a young age your doctor may advise you to get a homocysteine test.

What are the risks associated with high homocysteine levels in the blood?

High homocysteine level in your blood may increase your risk of:

Blood clots
Dementia
Heart Disease
Stroke
Osteoporosis

Do I need a prescription to take the Homocysteine level test?

No. You do not need a prescription to get your homocysteine levels tested.

What is hyperhomocysteinemia?

Hyperhomocysteinemia is characterised by high levels of homocysteine in the blood. Hyperhomocysteinemia could arise due to genetic defects. It may also be caused due to nutritional deficiencies of folate, vitamin B6, and vitamin B12.

What causes elevated homocysteine levels?

Elevated homocysteine levels in the blood could be due to:

Deficiency of B vitamins and folate
Kidney diseases
Low levels of thyroid hormones
Psoriasis
Certain medications
Smoking

How can the homocysteine levels be lowered?

❖ Include fresh fruits and green leafy vegetables rich in folate and vitamins B6 and B9 in your diet. Vitamin B12 is found in dairy products and fish.

❖ Quit smoking

❖ Get your homocysteine levels tested before the elevated homocysteine levels in your blood could cause severe health complications.