Type
Blood Testing
Biomarkers
11
Duration
15 min
Results
48 hours
Serum vitamin B12 (cobalamin) measurement screening for deficiency that causes neurological damage, macrocytic anaemia, and cognitive impairment. At EUR 28.36 under GOAe 1.0x rates. Particularly important for vegetarians, vegans, older adults, and patients on metformin or proton pump inhibitors -- all groups at elevated risk of B12 depletion.
Vitamin B12 (cobalamin) is an essential water-soluble vitamin required for DNA synthesis, red blood cell production, myelin maintenance, and one-carbon metabolism. The body stores 2-5 mg of B12, primarily in the liver, and daily losses are approximately 1-3 micrograms. Because stores are substantial relative to daily requirements, clinical deficiency typically takes 3-5 years to develop after intake ceases, but subclinical depletion begins much earlier. Serum B12 below 200 pg/mL (148 pmol/L) is considered deficient, and 200-300 pg/mL is a grey zone where functional deficiency may already be present. Functional markers -- methylmalonic acid and homocysteine -- are more sensitive than serum B12 alone but are not included in this single-analyte test. If serum B12 falls in the grey zone and clinical suspicion is high, follow-up with holotranscobalamin (active B12) or methylmalonic acid is recommended. B12 deficiency causes megaloblastic anaemia (macrocytic red blood cells due to impaired DNA synthesis) and, more insidiously, peripheral neuropathy, subacute combined degeneration of the spinal cord, cognitive decline, and psychiatric manifestations including depression and psychosis. Neurological damage can become irreversible if deficiency is prolonged. Risk groups include strict vegans (B12 is found almost exclusively in animal products), vegetarians with low dairy and egg intake, adults over 60 (20-30% have reduced gastric acid production and impaired B12 absorption), patients on metformin (which reduces B12 absorption by 10-30%), and patients on long-term proton pump inhibitors (which suppress the gastric acid needed to release B12 from food proteins). The GOAe 1.0x price is EUR 28.36 -- B12 assay at EUR 16.76 plus EUR 4.20 blood draw and EUR 7.40 outpatient fee. No fasting is required. Results are typically available within 1-2 business days.
Key Details
- Biomarker
- Vitamin B12
- Results
- 1-2 days
- Price
- EUR 28.36
Who Is This For?
Vegan/vegetarian screening, fatigue investigation, neurological symptoms, metformin users, older adults
What's Included
Preparation Required
No fasting required. Can be drawn at any time of day.
Panel Categories
Biomarkers Tested
11A trace mineral essential for iron metabolism, connective tissue formation, and antioxidant defense. The copper/zinc ratio is an emerging marker of inflammation and oxidative stress. Both deficiency and excess can cause problems.
Essential for DNA synthesis, cell division, and red blood cell formation. Folate deficiency causes megaloblastic anemia and, during pregnancy, increases the risk of neural tube defects. Works closely with vitamin B12.
Involved in over 300 enzymatic reactions including energy production, muscle function, and nerve signaling. Magnesium deficiency is common and associated with muscle cramps, anxiety, insomnia, and increased cardiovascular risk.
A trace mineral crucial for thyroid hormone metabolism, antioxidant defense (via selenoproteins), and immune function. Selenium deficiency can impair thyroid function and increase susceptibility to viral infections.
A fat-soluble vitamin essential for vision, immune function, skin health, and cell growth. Both deficiency and excess can cause health problems. Levels are tightly regulated by the liver.
Essential for nerve function, DNA synthesis, and red blood cell formation. B12 deficiency can cause anemia, neuropathy, fatigue, and cognitive impairment. Common in vegans, vegetarians, older adults, and those taking metformin or acid-reducing medications.
A powerful water-soluble antioxidant essential for collagen synthesis, immune function, and iron absorption. Vitamin C deficiency causes scurvy. It also supports wound healing and protects against oxidative stress.
The best indicator of overall vitamin D status. Vitamin D is essential for calcium absorption, bone health, immune function, and mood regulation. Deficiency is extremely common, especially in northern latitudes, and linked to increased disease risk.
A fat-soluble antioxidant that protects cell membranes from oxidative damage. Vitamin E works synergistically with vitamin C and selenium. Deficiency is rare but can cause nerve and muscle damage.
Essential for blood clotting and bone metabolism. Vitamin K activates proteins needed for blood coagulation and calcium regulation in bones. Deficiency increases bleeding risk and may contribute to osteoporosis.
An essential trace mineral involved in immune function, wound healing, DNA synthesis, and testosterone production. Zinc deficiency impairs immune response, delays wound healing, and can cause hair loss and taste changes.
EUR 28.36 total (GOAe 1.0x: B12 EUR 16.76 + EUR 4.20 blood draw + EUR 7.40 outpatient fee)
- Category
- Diagnostic
- Sample Type
- Blood (venous draw)
- Duration
- 15 min
- Results
- 48 hours