040 68334455
WhatsApp
Patient Portal
Home Care
The Homocysteine Test measures blood levels of homocysteine, an amino acid linked to heart disease and stroke risk. Elevated levels can indicate potential cardiovascular problems. This test is crucial for detecting imbalances early, allowing for better health monitoring. In this guide, we cover the cost, procedure, normal range, and risks of the test to help you make informed health decisions.
What is the Homocysteine Test?
A homocysteine blood test measures the homocysteine levels in a blood sample. Homocysteine is an amino acid. The body employs amino acids, which are molecules, to create proteins. Normally, the homocysteine levels are low in the body because the body utilizes vitamin B6, vitamin B12, and folic acid (also named folate or vitamin B9) to break down homocysteine and change it into other substances the body needs. Homocysteine levels that are too high in the blood might indicate either a problem with this mechanism or a deficiency in vitamins.
Homocysteine levels that are too high can harm the lining of your arteries and increase your chance of developing blood clots. This might make you more vulnerable to heart attacks, strokes, and other heart issues and blood vessel conditions. Other names: Total homocysteine, plasma total homocysteine.
Why is the Homocysteine Test Done?
A homocysteine test is used to:
- Find out the deficiency in folic acid, vitamin B6, or vitamin B12. If your body doesn't get enough of these, your homocysteine levels will increase.
- Aid in homocystinuria diagnosis. An uncommon hereditary condition that affects amino acid usage, leading to symptoms like blood clots, vision problems, and weak bones.
- Check risk factors for heart attacks or strokes if diagnosed with blood vessel disease, high blood pressure, high cholesterol, or diabetes.
Routine testing to assess heart disease risk is not advised because reducing homocysteine hasn’t been proven to minimize heart attack risks according to research.
Get a second opinion from trusted experts and makeconfident, informed decisions.
Get Second OpinionWhen is the Homocysteine Test Needed?
Doctors may recommend a homocysteine test if you have:
- Dizziness
- Fatigue
- Weakness
- Headache
- Skin discoloration
- Heart palpitations
- Sores on the tongue
- Tingling or numbness in your hands, feet, arms, or legs
Or if you suffer from:
- Malnutrition
- Alcohol use disorder
- Increasing age (older adults who can't absorb vitamin B12 properly)
- Cardiovascular disease history (heart attack, stroke, high LDL cholesterol)
Who Should Take the Homocysteine Test?
The test is recommended for:
- People with symptoms of vitamin B12 or folate deficiency
- Older adults
- Patients with alcohol use disorder
- People at risk for heart attacks or strokes
How Should I Prepare for the Homocysteine Test?
You might need to fast for eight to twelve hours before the test. Some medications and supplements (like vitamin B) can affect results. Inform your doctor about everything you’re taking, but don't stop medications unless advised.
What Type of Sample is Collected for the Homocysteine Test and How?
A blood sample is collected from a vein in your arm using a simple needle procedure. First, a healthcare professional cleans the puncture site with an antiseptic solution to prevent infection. An elastic band is tied around the upper arm to make the vein more prominent. A small needle is inserted into the vein, and blood is drawn into a collection tube. After enough blood is collected, the band is removed, the needle is withdrawn, and pressure is applied to stop any bleeding. A bandage is applied to cover the puncture site.
Are There Other Ways to Collect the Sample for the Homocysteine Test?
No alternate collection methods are typically used. Only venous blood collection is suitable for the Homocysteine Test because the concentration of homocysteine must be measured accurately in plasma. Capillary samples from finger pricks are not reliable for this test.
How is the Homocysteine Test Performed?
Here’s how it works:
- Fast for 8–12 hours if required
- Blood is drawn from a vein using a needle
- The sample is sent to a lab for analysis
Your health is everything - prioritize your well-being today.
Schedule Your Appointment
How Long Does the Homocysteine Test Take?
The sample collection itself takes just a few minutes. Results are generally ready within a few days.
When Will I Get My Homocysteine Test Results?
You will usually receive your Homocysteine test results within 12 to 24 hours, depending on the lab’s processing time. Reports are sent directly via WhatsApp or as a printed copy. Once you have your results, our doctor will explain them and guide you on the next steps, if needed.
How Do I Understand My Homocysteine Test Results?
High homocysteine levels could mean:
- You have a folic acid or vitamin B12 deficiency
- Possible homocystinuria (further testing needed)
- Increased risk for heart disease, stroke, or blood vessel conditions
- Other conditions like osteoporosis, kidney disease, hypothyroidism, Alzheimer's, or dementia
Age, gender, and smoking habits can affect your levels:
- Levels rise with age
- Higher in men (but rises in postmenopausal women)
- Smoking also raises levels
What Should I Do After Getting My Homocysteine Test Results?
Discuss your results with your doctor. They may recommend dietary changes, vitamin supplements, or further evaluation depending on your condition.
Are There Any Risks or Side Effects of the Homocysteine Test?
The test is generally safe, with minor possible effects like:
Is the Homocysteine Test Painful?
You may feel a quick sting or slight prick during the blood draw, but the discomfort is minimal and goes away quickly.
What are the Factors Affecting the Homocysteine Test Cost?
Factors include:
- Type of lab
- Diagnostic method
- Additional services like doctor consultation
- City/location of the diagnostic center
How Much Does the Homocysteine Test Cost in India?
In India, the Homocysteine test price usually ranges from Rs.800 to Rs.2,500, depending on the location and diagnostic center.
Homocysteine Test Price Table by Location
| City | Price Range (Rs.) |
| Hyderabad | Rs. 800 - 2,500 |
| Chandanagar | Rs. 800 - 2,500 |
| Karimnagar | Rs. 800 - 2,500 |
| Nizamabad | Rs. 800 - 2,500 |
| Warangal | Rs. 800 - 2,500 |
| MVP Visakhapatnam | Rs. 800 - 2,500 |
| Srikakulam | Rs. 800 - 2,500 |
| Kakinada | Rs. 800 - 2,500 |
| Kurnool | Rs. 800 - 2,500 |
| Nellore | Rs. 800 - 2,500 |
| Vizianagaram | Rs. 800 - 2,500 |
| Navi Mumbai | Rs. 800 - 2,500 |
| Nashik | Rs. 800 - 2,500 |
| Chh. Sambhajinagar | Rs. 800 - 2,500 |
| Pune | Rs. 800 - 2,500 |
| Sangamner | Rs. 800 - 2,500 |
| Bangalore | Rs. 800 - 2,500 |
Note: Homocysteine Test costs may vary slightly depending on the laboratory and location. Book a Homocysteine Test at Medicover Hospitals. Call us at 040-68334455.
Other Tests
Frequently Asked Questions
Normal homocysteine levels are between 5 and 15 micromoles per litre (? mol/L). People who score 50 or higher are more susceptible to cardiovascular problems.
Dairy products and red meat contain a lot of Homocysteine and can raise homocysteine levels in the blood.
Including more fruits and vegetables can help lower your homocysteine level. Green leafy vegetables such as spinach are good sources of folate. Other good sources of folate are cereals.
Homocysteine is caused by nutritional deficiencies of folic acid, vitamin B6, and vitamin B12.
Yes, Homocysteine Test is taken on empty stomach, you have to fast for 8 to 12 hours before this test.
While the Homocysteine Test can help assess the risk for blood clots, it is not specifically designed to detect blood clotting disorders. High homocysteine levels are associated with an increased risk of blood clots, but other tests may be needed for a definitive diagnosis of clotting disorders.
