Homocysteine CPT: 83090
Expected Turnaround Time
Within 1-2 days
Turnaround time is defined as the usual number of days from the date of pickup of a specimen for testing to when the result is released to the ordering provider. In some cases, additional time should be allowed for additional confirmatory or additional reflex tests. Testing schedules may vary.
Specimen Requirements
Specimen
Plasma (preferred); serum is acceptable.
Volume
2 mL
Minimum Volume
1 mL
Container
Plasma: It is important to centrifuge blood samples for plasma collection immediately after collection to separate the plasma from the blood cells. If immediate centrifugation is not possible, collected blood specimens should be kept on ice and centrifuged within an hour.
Serum:Allow 45 minutes for serum to clot and centrifuge to separate serum from cells immediately thereafter.
Collection
If tube other than a gel-barrier tube is used, transfer separated serum or plasma to a plastic transport tube.
Storage Instructions
Room temperature. Stable at room temperature or refrigerated for 14 days. Stable frozen for six months.
Patient Information
Patient Preparation
A fasting specimen is preferred to establish baseline values or monitor treatment.
To help determine if you are deficient in vitamins B6, B9 (folate) or B12; to determine if you are at increased risk of heart attack or stroke; to monitor those who have heart disease; sometimes to help diagnose a rare inherited disorder called homocystinuria in newborns.
When your healthcare provider suspects that you have a vitamin B6, B12 or folate deficiency; when you have had a heart attack or stroke and do not have traditional risk factors, such as unhealthy lipid levels.
A blood sample taken by needle from a vein.
You may be instructed to fast for 10 to 12 hours prior to this test; only water is permitted.