- Test Name
- Vitamin B12
- Aliases
- B12; Cobalamine; Vit B12
- Provincial Mnemonic
- VITB12
- LOINC Test Code
- 14685-2
- Description and Primary Use
- First line diagnostic test for anemia in patients with macrocytosis or unexplained neurologic disease.
- Reorder interval
- 180 Days
- TAT
- 3 Days
- Test Cost
- Not Available
- Tier
- 2 - Conditional/Restricted Access (See Ordering Requirements)
- Ordering Requirements (Restrictions / Conditions)
Test orders for serum vitamin B12 levels will be completed if one or more of the following is indicated on the requisition:
- High risk for nutritional B12 deficiency.
- High risk for drug-related B12 deficiency.
- GI disease/surgery.
- Unexplained hematologic abnormalities.
- Unexplained neurologic abnormalities.
A LTSA form must be completed with the test name clearly identified and one of the above clearly indicated as reason for the test request.
Reflexive testing for MMA is done to done to help improve diagnosis of vitamin B12 deficiency.
- Required Consultations
- None
- Algorithms and Guidelines
- Special Patient Preparation
None
- Special Collection / Transport / Processing Requirements
No special requirement
- Criteria for Rejection
Please consult specimen stability guide
- Laboratory Service Area
- Clinical Chemistry
- Performing Laboratory / Site
- Category 4 Laboratory (HSC only)
- Last Updated
- 19-Sep-19