Type
Blood Testing
Biomarkers
11
Duration
10 min
Results
48 hours
Serum vitamin B12 measurement for deficiency screening. At €14.57 (plus blood draw), a targeted test for vegetarians, vegans, older adults, and metformin users — the groups at highest risk of B12 depletion.
Vitamin B12 (cobalamin) is essential for DNA synthesis, red blood cell formation, myelin sheath maintenance, and methylation reactions. Unlike most water-soluble vitamins, B12 has substantial liver stores (2–5 years' supply), meaning deficiency develops slowly but can cause irreversible neurological damage if undetected. B12 is found exclusively in animal products — meat, fish, dairy, and eggs. Strict vegans have a near-100% probability of developing deficiency without supplementation. Vegetarians are at intermediate risk depending on dairy and egg intake. Older adults frequently develop deficiency due to declining gastric acid production (required for B12 absorption from food). Metformin, proton pump inhibitors, and H2 blockers also reduce B12 absorption. Neurological symptoms of B12 deficiency include peripheral neuropathy (tingling, numbness), cognitive impairment, depression, and balance problems. These can precede haematological changes (macrocytic anaemia) by years. Early detection through routine screening is therefore important in at-risk groups. Serum B12 below 200 pg/mL indicates likely deficiency; 200–300 pg/mL is a grey zone where functional markers (methylmalonic acid, homocysteine) provide additional diagnostic clarity. Mein Labor Leipzig can test homocysteine as part of expanded profiles. A single B12 test is sufficient for initial screening. If deficiency is confirmed and supplementation started, recheck after 3–6 months.
Key Details
- Biomarker
- Vitamin B12
- Results
- 1-2 days
- Total cost
- ~€19
Who Is This For?
Vegans, vegetarians, older adults, metformin users, fatigue investigation, neurological symptoms
What's Included
Preparation Required
No fasting required.
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.
€14.57 + €4.19 blood draw = €18.76 total. GOÄ 1.0x rate.
- Category
- Diagnostic
- Sample Type
- Blood (venous draw)
- Duration
- 10 min
- Results
- 48 hours