From http://vegweb.com/articles/anai-1038161917.shtml
"Question: Hi, In terms of determining B12 level is a red blood cell count sufficient when having a blood test or should it be specifically tested for B12 levels? Thanks, Gaye
Answer: Simple blood tests can determine if you have too little of this important vitamin. Print this article or add the following to the list of questions you plan to bring to your next visit:
Vitamin B12 and Folic Acid tests: Two of the most common causes of enlarged red blood cells - that result in Macrocytic anemia, are low blood levels of vitamin B12 and folic acid.
A Schilling test: This urine test is done to help determine whether the body is absorbing B12 and the actual cause of why it may not be.
Homocysteine: Homocysteine is an amino acid normally found in minute amounts in the blood. A high blood level of homocysteine is a sign of B12 deficiency anemia.
Complete Blood Count (CBC): This blood test can easily spot problems with low levels of B12 by examining red blood cell count for anemia. It checks the red blood cells for shape, size, and quantity.
Methylmalonic acid (MMA) blood test: Methylmalonic acid is a substance in blood that increases when vitamin B12 levels decrease.
Be sure to ask your doctor for a copy of the lab results. Most labs will offer a normal and abnormal range value next to the result for reference. Having the results will help ease your mind and also can be reviewed against future lab results.
Anai Rhoads"
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