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Homocysteine Test


Why is this procedure done?


This test is done to find out how much homocysteine is in your blood. This level may also be checked in your urine. Homocysteine is a building block of protein. Your body can only get homocysteine from the foods you eat. It is important to have the right level of homocystine in your body. Having too much or too little may cause serious health problems. ‚  
The doctor may order a homocysteine level to: ‚  
  • Check for problems with your heart or blood vessels
  • Look for problems that you may have with blood clotting
  • See if you have a problem with breaking down proteins
  • Learn about vitamin levels in your blood
  • Go along with other tests


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What will the results be?


  • The doctor will look at the results of your test. The doctor may learn that you have signs of an illness that needs treatment.
  • If the results are normal, it means your body is likely working in a healthy way.
  • If the results are not normal, you may have an illness. Your doctor may order more tests to learn more about your health or problems you are having.
  • The doctor will talk with you about treatment.

What happens before the procedure?


  • Do not eat or drink anything other than water for 10 to 12 hours before the test.
  • Talk to your doctor about:
    • All the drugs you are taking
    • If you need to stop taking any drugs 10 to 12 hours before your test
    • If you have any bleeding problems

What happens during the procedure?


It will only take a few minutes to have this test. You will be awake the whole time. ‚  
Blood test: ‚  
  • You will have a small amount of blood taken from you with a needle. You may have a small amount of pain. The needle will be taken out and a bandage will be put on your skin. The lab will test your blood to see how much homocysteine is in it.

Urine test: ‚  
  • You will use a clean plastic cup to catch some of your urine.
  • Wash your hands well with soap and warm water.
  • Do not touch the inside of the cup or lid.
  • Start to pass urine into the toilet. After a few seconds, catch some urine using the plastic cup. Make sure your cup is about 1/3 full of urine.

What happens after the procedure?


  • You may want to sit quietly for a few minutes before standing up if you had a blood test. This will help keep you from feeling dizzy.
  • Put pressure with your other hand where the needle was. This will help with bruising and bleeding.
  • Ask your doctor when you will get the results.

What care is needed at home?


You may do your everyday activities when you get back home. ‚  

What follow-up care is needed?


Your doctor may ask you to make visits to the office to check on your progress. Be sure to keep these visits. This test will help your doctor find out if you have a problem. Together you can make a plan for more care. ‚  

What problems could happen?


  • Pain
  • Bruising
  • Bleeding
  • Feeling dizzy
  • Infection

Where can I learn more?


American Association for Clinical Chemistry ‚  
http://labtestsonline.org/understanding/analytes/homocysteine/tab/glance ‚  

Consumer Information Use and Disclaimer


This information is not specific medical advice and does not replace information you receive from your health care provider. This is only a brief summary of general information. It does NOT include all information about conditions, illnesses, injuries, tests, procedures, treatments, therapies, discharge instructions or life-style choices that may apply to you. You must talk with your health care provider for complete information about your health and treatment options. This information should not be used to decide whether or not to accept your health care providers advice, instructions or recommendations. Only your health care provider has the knowledge and training to provide advice that is right for you. ‚  

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