Vitamin B12

Testing the level of vitamin B12 in the blood.

Vitamin B12 is necessary for the proper synthesis of cell nuclei (along with folic acid). When it is deficient, the number of cell divisions decreases, which results in an increase in the MCV of erythrocytes. It also participates in the metabolic changes of spinal neurons. Absorption occurs in the presence of an intrinsic factor produced in the stomach.

Indications for the test are as follows:

• macrocytic anaemia,
• post-perfusion spinal cord degeneration,
• malabsorption syndromes.

Decreased levels are observed in the following cases:

• incorrect diet (vegetarian and vegan),
• deficiencies of the internal factor (gastric resection, immune-mediated gastritis, autoantibodies against the parietal cells or the internal factor),
• diseases of the distal ileum,
• increased demand.

Elevated levels are most often iatrogenic and occur in the cases of:

• liver metastases,
• acute and chronic hepatitis,
• or growths like leukaemia.

Preparation for the examination

• The blood drawing itself takes only several seconds.
• Blood drawing procedure - skin disinfection, applying a tourniquet, and putting pressure on the blood drawing site for a few minutes after the procedure.
• There are no contraindications to this test.

Lab test results

• Results are available within 3 business days..
• You may collect your results at the reception desk of any Medicover Centre.

If the test was performed at the Medicover Medical Centre, results will be available online.

1. Download the Medicover OnLine application on your phone from Google Play or the App Store.
2. Log in to the application via the secure internet banking system or collect the application password at the Medicover Centre reception desk during your appointment at the Lab.