Laboratory Medicine Program

Vitamin B12
(B12)

Clinical Decription:
Vitamin B12 and folate are critical to normal DNA synthesis, which in turn affects erythrocyte maturation. Vitamin B12 is also necessary for myelin sheath formation and maintenance. The body uses its B12 stores very economically, reabsorbing vitamin B12 from the ileum and returning it to the liver so that little is excreted. Clinical and laboratory findings for B12 deficiencies include neurological abnormalities, decreased serum B12 levels and increased excretion of methylmalonic acid. The impaired DNA synthesis associated with vitamin B12 deficiency causes macrocytic anemia caused by vitamin B12 deficiency that is due to lack of intrinisic factor. Low vitamin B12 intake, gastrectomy, diseases of the small intestine, malabsorption and trans-cobalmin deficiency can also cause vitamin B12 deficiency. Disorders associated with elevated B12 include renal failure, liver disease and myleoproliferative disease.
<br/><em> Abbott Architect i200 B12 reagent package insert</em>

Method: Turbidimetric; Architect i2000

Component Tests Used: n/a

Reference Ranges Used:
Normal 222-652 pmol/L Low < 138 pmol/L Intermediate 138-221 pmol/L

Specimen Type: serum
Volume: 3 mL (minimum: 1 mL)

Shipping: room temperature or 4C

Special Instructions: Centrifuge and aliquot sample.

Testing Schedule(s): Monday through Friday 0900-1500 hrs.

Turnaround Time: 1 day

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