Biochemistry · Nutritional Deficiency
Vitamin B12 Test
Measures Cobalamin levels in blood. B12 deficiency is especially common in vegetarians and causes fatigue, nerve damage, and megaloblastic anaemia.
Why Vitamin B12 Matters
Vitamin B12 (Cobalamin) is a water-soluble vitamin that the body cannot produce on its own — it must come entirely from diet or supplements. It is indispensable for myelin sheath formation (the protective coating around nerves), DNA synthesis, red blood cell maturation, and neurological health. Since B12 is found almost exclusively in animal-derived foods, vegetarians, vegans, and the elderly face the highest deficiency risk.
Critically, the body stores B12 in the liver for years — so deficiency often develops slowly and silently. By the time symptoms appear, nerve damage may already be irreversible. Early detection through blood testing is therefore essential.
Reference Ranges
| Level (pg/mL) | Status | Clinical Significance |
|---|---|---|
| < 150 pg/mL | Severe Deficiency | Nerve damage, megaloblastic anaemia |
| 150–200 pg/mL | Borderline Low | Symptomatic deficiency possible |
| 200–900 pg/mL | Normal | Adequate B12 levels |
| > 900 pg/mL | High (investigate cause) | Liver disease, myeloproliferative disorders |
Top Dietary Sources of Vitamin B12
| Food Source | Approx. B12 Content | Note |
|---|---|---|
| Clams / Shellfish | 84 µg / 100g | Richest natural source |
| Beef Liver | 70 µg / 100g | Excellent source |
| Fish (Sardines, Salmon) | 8–12 µg / 100g | Good non-meat source |
| Eggs | 1.1 µg / 100g | Moderate — absorbed well |
| Milk / Dairy | 0.4–0.9 µg / 100g | Only vegetarian source |
| Fortified Foods | Varies | Cereals, plant milks — check label |
Who Is Most at Risk?
Preparation
No fasting required. If you take B12 supplements or B12 injections, inform your doctor — ideally wait a few days after an injection to get a meaningful result. The test can be done at any time of day.
Test Price at Velys Hospital
₹150
Inclusive of collection · Same-day report
Book Vitamin B12 Test at Velys Hospital
No fasting needed · Walk-in available · Same-day results · Ahmedabad