Also Known As
HCY, Plasma Total Homocysteine, Total Homocysteine
The Purpose of a Homocysteine Test
Homocysteine is an amino acid normally found in small amounts in the blood. However, high levels of homocysteine may promote plaque buildup in blood vessels that can, over time, lead to serious cardiovascular problems. These include an increased risk of atherosclerosis (hardening and thickening of the artery walls) and subsequent coronary artery disease.
Homocysteine levels can be elevated by other factors such as family history, age, gender, certain medications, and chronic kidney disease. You may also have high homocysteine due to a vitamin B12 or folic acid deficiency. This can cause symptoms such as fatigue, mood swings, rashes, and a numb feeling in the hands and feet.
What Does the Homocysteine Lab Test Measure?
Homocysteine testing helps clarify the state of your heart health by measuring the levels of this amino acid in your blood. Homocysteine levels may also help diagnose other health issues, including vitamin deficiency, dementia, osteoporosis, and hypothyroidism.
Who Should Take a Blood Test for Homocysteine?
You may want a homocysteine test if you have:
- A strong family history of heart disease, heart attack, or stroke
- High cholesterol levels
- Vitamin B12/ folic acid deficiency
HCY Test Preparation
You must fast for 12 hours prior to having your blood drawn for homocysteine testing.
Homocysteine Blood Test Results
You want your homocysteine blood test to return a reading under 15.1 µmol/L. Results higher than that may require further heart health or vitamin testing. If you need help determining your next steps, we’re here for you—just schedule a telehealth appointment with one of our board-certified physicians.
Where Can I Get a Homocysteine Test Near Me?
It’s easy to get a homocysteine lab test with Personalabs. By partnering with leading lab companies Quest Diagnostics and Labcorp, we give you more than 4,000 high-quality test locations to choose from across the country.
To get a blood test for homocysteine:
Step 1: Purchase the lab test online and download the lab order. (A doctor’s approval may not be needed, depending on the state where you live.)
Step 2: Use our locator to find the lab near you. Many facilities offer appointments and walk-in testing.
Step 3: Bring the HCY test order to the lab when it’s time to have your blood drawn.
Step 4: You should get your confidential results in your private Personalabs portal within 2 to 10 business days. (Contact us to request a specific turnaround time from the lab, as that can vary by location.)
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