Vitamin B12, Active Holo Transcobalamin Test
Vitamin B12, Active Holo Transcobalamin Test
Vitamin B12 is a part of the vitamin B - complex. It is involved in the repair of cells, the formation of red blood cells, and DNA synthesis. Vitamin B12 is indispensable for a healthy nervous system. The deficiency of vitamin B12 can lead to a type of anemia called macrocytic anemia where the red blood cells become abnormally large. Vitamin B12 deficiency can cause neuropathy of varying degrees and intensity. It can be in the form of tingling and numbness of hands and feet to severe weakness, loss of memory, and incoordination in case of subacute combined degeneration of the spinal cord (SACD).
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Vitamin B12 (cobalamin) is bound to two proteins in serum: transcobalamin and haptocorrin. About 20% of vitamin B12 is attached to transcobalamin (Holo Transcobalamin - holoTC) and is available for cells. This is the active form of vitamin B12. The remaining 80% of vitamin B12 is attached to haptocorrin.
Active Holo Transcobalamin test measures the transcobalamin vitamin B12 complex in serum as it is a more sensitive marker of vitamin B12 deficiency than total vitamin B12 as its levels decrease before other vitamin B12 status markers.
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Therefore, this test is recommended to determine if the hematological or neurological symptoms are due to a deficiency of folate or vitamin B12.
What is Vitamin B12, Active Holo Transcobalamin test used for?
This test is used to diagnose deficiency of precursor or active form of vitamin B12 i.e., holoTC. It can detect vitamin B12 deficiency in the early stages and helps in early treatment. Symptoms of vitamin B12 deficiency
Fatigue
Weakness
Shortness of breath
Nerve problems like tingling, numbness
Behavioral changes
Memory loss
Heart palpitations
Who should get tested?
This test is indicated for people who have the following symptoms
Elderly person with behavioral changes
Abnormal sensation in toes and fingertips
Weakness or clumsiness of hands and feet
Signs of malnutrition and anemia
Preparation for test
There is no special preparation required for this test; however, overnight fasting is recommended. Certain types of medication and pregnancy can affect the test results. It is advised to consult your health care professional on whether or not a medicine needs to be stopped before the test.
Interpretation of the test results
The normal range for holoTC is between 25-165 pmol/L. However, the normal range may vary depending on the testing method and the laboratory’s reference range.
FAQs
How is the sample collected for the Vitamin B12, Active Holo Transcobalamin?
A healthcare professional takes a blood sample from a vein in the arm using a small needle. The sample is further sent to the laboratory for analysis.
Can I prevent vitamin B12 deficiency?
Vitamin B12 is present in animal products like milk and meat. Vitamin B12 is available in oral or injectable forms.
Can excess vitamin B12 and folate cause harm?
Higher levels of vitamin B12 without taking supplements can be due to some serious illnesses and should be further investigated.
What are the causes of low vitamin B12 levels?
Low vitamin B12 level is caused by malnutrition, alcoholism, certain medications, malabsorption diseases like pernicious anemia, coeliac disease, and inflammatory bowel diseases.
What are the limitations of the Vitamin B12, Active Holo Transcobalamin test?
The Vitamin B12, Active Holo Transcobalamin test may have the following limitations:
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·        Limited availability: This test requires special equipment and expertise. Therefore, this test may not be widely available.
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·        Interfering medications: Certain medications or conditions can interfere with the accuracy of the results.
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·        False negative result: Certain factors like poor absorption or metabolism of vitamins may show a low level despite normal levels.
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False positive result: Certain errors in the testing process may show elevated levels despite normal levels.
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