Homocysteine

InflammationHeart & VesselsBlood

Homocysteine is an amino acid, a chemical in the blood that helps create proteins.

Why it matters: A raised level can damage the lining of the arteries and is associated with a higher risk of heart attack, stroke and blood clots.

Source · Cleveland Clinic — what it is, why it matters, what moves it

Reference Range
5.0 – 15.0umol/L
5
15LowNormalHigh
What Moves It

May increase with:

Vitamin B12 deficiency
Vitamin B6 deficiency
Folate deficiency
Chronic kidney disease
Hypothyroidism
Tobacco use
Age
Menopause

May decrease with:

Vitamin B6
Vitamin B12
Folic acid
Related Markers
Vitamin B12Folic Acidvitamin_b6
Common questions

What is Homocysteine?

Homocysteine is an amino acid, a chemical in the blood that helps create proteins.

What might a high or low Homocysteine mean?

A raised level can damage the lining of the arteries and is associated with a higher risk of heart attack, stroke and blood clots.

What is the typical reference range for Homocysteine?

The general-population reference range shown here is 5 – 15 umol/L. Reference ranges describe the general population and are not a personal target — discuss your results with your physician.

What can affect Homocysteine?

It may be higher with: Vitamin B12 deficiency, Vitamin B6 deficiency, Folate deficiency, Chronic kidney disease, Hypothyroidism, Tobacco use, Age, Menopause. It may be lower with: Vitamin B6, Vitamin B12, Folic acid.

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