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Test Code 278 Vitamin B12

Important Note

Human Anti-Mouse Antibodies (HAMA) may be present in samples from patients who have received immunotherapy or diagnostic procedures utilizing monoclonal antibodies or in individuals who have been regularly exposed to animals. Additionally, other heterophile antibodies, such as human anti-goat antibodies may be present in patient samples. Manufacturers formulate assays to minimize the effects of these antibodies; however careful evaluation of patient results must be done when patients are known to have such antibodies.

This assay is not validated for testing neonatal or myeloproliferative syndrome specimens for vitamin B12 levels.

Additional Codes

ALAB: B12

PowerChart: Vitamin B12 Level

MA Cerner: Vitamin B12

Test Method

MercyOne: Competitive Binding Immunoenzymatic Assay; Beckman

MA: Immunoenzymatic ("Sandwich") Chemiluminescent Method; Roche Cobas 6000

Specimen Requirement

1 mL serum or plasma is required.

Additional Specimen Collection Information

Collect blood in a lithium heparin, green-top or red-top tube. PST and SST (gel tubes) are acceptable. Serum or plasma should be separated from contact with the cells within 2 hours of collection. Specimens not centrifuged within 4 hours of collection may be rejected. Refrigerate the specimen if unable to assay within 8 hours of collection. Hemolyzed specimens are not acceptable.

Performance

Testing is performed Monday through Sunday.

Routine: Typically completed within 4 hours after the specimen arrives at the testing site.

STAT: Typically completed within 1.5 hours after the specimen arrives at the testing site.

Reference Values

Normal Range: 180-914 pg/mL

Indeterminate Range: 145-180 pg/mL

Deficient Range: ≤145 pg/mL

CPT Code Information

82607 Chemistry: Cyanocobalamin (Vitamin B12)

Useful For

Investigation of macrocytic anemia

Workup of deficiencies seen in megaloblastic anemias

LOINC Code Information

2132-9 Cobalamin (Vitamin B12) [Mass/Volume] In Serum Or Plasma