Test Information:
Homocysteine is a thiol-containing amino acid produced by the intracellular demethylation of methionine. Homocysteine is metabolized to either cysteine or methionine. The majority of elevated homocysteine cases in the general population are due to deficiency of folic acid, vitamin B6 and vitamin B12.
Specimen Container:
Gold Top SST Tube (with clot activator) or Red Top Tube (Plain) – USE PLASTIC TUBE ONLY
Specimen Type:
Serum
Required Volume:
2 mL
Patient Preparation:
No Patient Preparation
Notes:
N/A (Not Applicable)
Storage & Stability
(Before Processing)
- Storage: 2 to 8˚C
Stability: 4 weeks - Storage: 15 to 25˚C
Stability: 4 days - Storage: – 20˚C (± 5 °C)
Stability: 10 months
FREEZE ONLY ONCE!
Transport Temperature:
Ref (2°C to 8°C)
Test Category:
Routine
Test Schedule:
Daily
Results Availability:
Within 4 hours