Vitamin B12

Vitamin B12, which is also known as cobalamin, is an essential nutrient for our body as it is a cofactor in both DNA and amino synthesis. The deficiency of this vitamin may lead to irreversible nerve damage, and poor production of healthy red blood cells and decreased brain function. This is the reason why every individual must get a vitamin B12 test done every 6 months. Some of the symptoms of vitamin B12 deficiency include headaches, fatigue, memory problems and depression; these may worsen with time. Apollo 24|7’s vitamin B12 test price is extremely competitive and the brand utilises the latest technologies to assess the results. 

Keeping in mind the requirement and the necessity of every individual, Apollo 24|7’s vitamin B12 test price has been kept nominal and can be done individually or with other tests such as a CBC profile, and other Vitamin tests, like Folic acid and Vitamin D3 levels. In case the results display a low amount of vitamin B12 in your body.

Apollo 24|7 uses cutting-edge technologies to analyse blood samples and yet the vitamin B12 test price charged by the healthcare provider is competitive.

Who should get a vitamin B12 test done at regular intervals?

• People having anaemia or low Hb levels
• People suffering from pernicious anaemia, ie low Hb levels related to low vitamin B12 absorption
• People who are experiencing unexplained memory loss or fatigue
• People who are diagnosed with celiac disease
• People who follow a Vegetarian or Vegan diet
• People experiencing numbness or tingling in their hands and feet
  
  Medically reviewed by Dr Shakti, General Physician/Internal Medicine at Indraprastha Apollo Hospitals, New Delhi

Frequently asked questions

How is the blood sample taken?

To take the blood sample, a tourniquet (elastic) band is placed tightly on the upper arm. The patient is asked to make a fist. This helps in the buildup of blood filling the veins and it becomes easy to collect the blood. The skin is cleaned before inserting the needle in the vein in order to prevent bacteria from entering. The needle is then inserted into the vein in the arm and the blood sample is collected in the vacutainer.

What are the conditions that may interfere with the absorption of Vitamin B12 in the intestine?

The conditions that may interfere with absorption of Vitamin B12 include pernicious anemia, celiac disease, topical sprue, inflammatory bowel disease, bacterial overgrowth, presence of parasites, long term use of antacids leading to a reduction in the production of acid by the stomach, gastric bypass surgery of stomach, and pancreatic insufficiency.

In what conditions high levels of Vitamin B12 are seen?

High levels of Vitamin B12 are uncommon. However, in some conditions, the levels of Vitamin B12 can rise. These conditions include diabetes, heart failure, obesity, AIDS, chronic myeloproliferative neoplasm, or severe liver disease.

Can other vitamins cause high levels of Vitamin B12?

Yes, ingestion of vitamins such as Vitamin C or Vitamin A can also raise the levels of Vitamin B12. Ingesting estrogens can also increase the levels of Vitamin B12.

What other tests might be advised along with the Vitamin B12 test?

Depending upon which cause is suspected by the doctor, other tests can be advised. For example: to diagnose pernicious anemia, intrinsic factor antibody, and parietal cell antibody test can be advised.

Should I inform my doctor if I am taking any medicines?

Yes, please inform your doctor if you are taking any medicines or supplements as it might interfere with the test results.

What are the foods that are rich in vitamin B12?

Foods that have sufficient vitamin B12 are beef, pork, poultry, eggs, milk and dairy products.

Does diabetes interfere with vitamin B12 absorption?

Diabetes itself does not play any role in reducing vitamin B12 absorption in your body. However, research studies reveal that metformin, a medicine widely used to treat type 2 diabetes, may interfere with vitamin B12 absorption.

What is pernicious anaemia?

Pernicious anaemia is an auto-immune disorder, in which the body’s own immunity attacks the lining of your stomach, perceiving it as ‘foreign’. This leads to damage to the lining of the stomach, and poor absorption of Vitamin B12.

What is celiac disease?

Celiac disease or Gluten sensitivity is also an auto-immune disorder; in this condition, it is the lining of the intestine which is damaged due to ‘sensitivity’ to or allergy to Gluten (component of wheat). Again the absorption of Vitamin B12 is decreased due to this damage, leading to its deficiency in the blood.