Vitamin B Supplement Test Panel

This test measures MTHFR, an enzyme critical for processing folate and producing molecules needed for DNA synthesis and methylation. MTHFR enzyme deficiency is a rare inherited metabolic disorder causing severe neurological problems, including intellectual disability, seizures, and movement disorders. Genetic variations (polymorphisms) in the MTHFR gene are common but usually don't cause disease. However, actual enzyme deficiency requires specialized treatment with folinic acid and other supplements. This test is ordered when genetic MTHFR deficiency is suspected based on neurological symptoms or family history.

Thiamine (vitamin B1) is essential for energy metabolism and nervous system function. This test measures thiamine status in the blood to identify deficiency. Thiamine deficiency causes weakness, nerve damage, and can lead to serious conditions like Wernicke-Korsakoff syndrome, particularly in people with alcohol use disorder, malnutrition, or certain genetic conditions. Symptoms of deficiency include fatigue, neuropathy (nerve pain), and cognitive problems. Testing is ordered when deficiency is suspected based on symptoms or risk factors.

Niacin, also known as vitamin B3, is an essential nutrient that supports energy production, DNA repair, and nervous system function. A blood niacin test measures whether you have adequate levels of this vitamin. Deficiency can cause fatigue, skin problems, and neurological issues, while severe deficiency leads to pellagra. Most people get sufficient niacin from diet, but supplementation may be needed in certain conditions or dietary restrictions.

Biotin (vitamin B7) is a water-soluble B vitamin essential for energy metabolism, hair, skin, and nail health. A biotin test measures circulating biotin levels, which can be low due to insufficient dietary intake, malabsorption, or certain medications. Biotin deficiency is rare but can cause hair loss, skin rashes, and neurological symptoms. Biotin supplementation has become popular for hair and nail health, though evidence is mixed. This test helps identify true deficiency versus assessing supplement adequacy.

Pantothenate, also known as pantothenic acid or vitamin B5, is an essential nutrient required for energy metabolism, hormone production, and skin health. A pantothenate test measures the level of this B vitamin in your blood. Deficiency is rare in well-nourished populations but can occur with severe malnutrition, certain medications, or malabsorption disorders. Symptoms of deficiency include fatigue, numbness, and digestive issues. This test may be ordered when B vitamin deficiency is suspected or to assess nutritional status.

Folate is a B vitamin essential for DNA synthesis, cell division, and red blood cell formation. Your body cannot make folate, so it must come from foods like leafy greens, legumes, and fortified grains. Low folate levels can cause anemia, fatigue, and neurological problems. During pregnancy, adequate folate is critical for fetal development. High folate levels are rare but may suggest certain health conditions. This test screens for deficiency, which is common in vegetarians, people with malabsorption disorders, and those taking certain medications.

Nicotinamide, also known as niacinamide, is a form of vitamin B3 (niacin) essential for energy production, DNA repair, and cell signaling. Unlike nicotinic acid (the other form of B3), nicotinamide does not cause flushing. Your body obtains nicotinamide from foods like chicken, tuna, and mushrooms, or synthesizes it from tryptophan. Low levels are rare in developed countries but can occur with severe malnutrition, certain medications, or genetic disorders affecting niacin metabolism. This test helps assess nutritional status and may be useful in evaluating fatigue or neurological symptoms.

Riboflavin, also known as vitamin B2, is an essential nutrient that your body uses to convert food into energy and support cell growth and metabolism. A blood riboflavin test measures the level of this vitamin circulating in your bloodstream. Deficiency is uncommon in developed countries but can occur with malabsorption disorders, certain medications, or restrictive diets. Low levels may cause fatigue, mouth sores, or skin issues. This test is typically ordered when nutritional deficiency is suspected or to monitor patients at risk.

This category encompasses laboratory test results that have been sent to a specialized reference laboratory for advanced or specialized testing. Reference labs perform complex analyses that are not available at routine hospital or clinic labs, such as genetic testing, specialized microbiology cultures, or complex immunological assays. Results from these tests provide detailed diagnostic information for uncommon or complicated medical conditions.

Cobalamin, also known as vitamin B12, is an essential nutrient required for nerve function, red blood cell formation, and DNA synthesis. This test measures B12 levels in blood. Deficiency causes pernicious anemia, nerve damage, and cognitive problems. B12 deficiency is common in vegetarians, older adults, and people with gastrointestinal disorders. Low levels require supplementation through injections or high-dose oral supplements to restore normal function.