Insight into your homocysteine level.
Homocysteine is an amino acid whose elevated level is associated with cardiovascular risk factors and B vitamin status. A test provides insight, with personal explanation from our doctors.
Also known as: homocysteine, Hcy
Personal assessment by our BIG-registered Bloodworks® doctors
By the Bloodworks editorial team
Homocysteine blood test
- Total
- 149,-
Next step: choose your collection point
- No referral needed
- 1000+ collection points
- Results typically within 2 working days
- Every result reviewed by a BIG-registered doctor
For a complete cardiovascular picture
View Cholesterol Panel
Homocysteine is stronger as part of a broader cardiovascular picture. The Cholesterol Panel value package contains the full lipid profile (total cholesterol, HDL, LDL and triglycerides) in a single blood draw for €69, plus a one-off €29 blood draw fee per order (waived from €225).
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Background
What is homocysteine?
Homocysteine is an amino acid that arises during the breakdown of methionine, a protein building block from food. Under normal circumstances, homocysteine is rapidly broken down with the help of vitamins B6, B12, and folic acid (B11). When this breakdown is insufficient, homocysteine accumulates in the blood.
Elevated homocysteine can arise from a deficiency of B vitamins, reduced kidney function, an underactive thyroid, certain medications, or a genetic variant (such as MTHFR). An elevated level is associated with an increased risk of cardiovascular disease and is sometimes measured as a supplement to the standard cholesterol profile.
In brief
Amino acid
Intermediate in protein metabolism
B vitamins
B6, B12, and folic acid regulate breakdown
Vascular
Associated with cardiovascular disease
Fasting (12h)
Required for a reliable measurement
Common reasons to test
When can insight into your Homocysteine be valuable?
Below are some situations in which measuring Homocysteine can provide insight.
Insight into your level
A test gives insight into this marker, which is not included in standard check-ups.
With a family history
With cardiovascular disease at a young age in the family, homocysteine is sometimes measured as an additional cardiovascular marker.
With questions about B vitamin status
Elevated homocysteine can indicate a functional deficiency of B12 or folic acid, even when those blood values fall within the reference range.
As a supplement to cholesterol
Those seeking a broader picture of their cardiovascular risk factors sometimes add homocysteine alongside cholesterol, ApoB, and Lp(a).
With questions about fertility
With multiple unexplained miscarriages, homocysteine is sometimes measured as part of a more extensive screening.
For follow-up of supplementation
Those using B vitamin supplements to influence a previously elevated homocysteine can periodically re-test.
What your result means
Homocysteine too high: what does your result mean?
Homocysteine is measured in micromoles per litre (µmol/L). Interpretation of your value is carried out against the reference ranges of the laboratory and your personal context.
A low value
A homocysteine level below the normal threshold is rare and is generally not a cause for concern. A low value is sometimes seen with good intake of B vitamins through diet or supplements.
A normal value
Homocysteine within the reference range gives a reassuring picture for this marker. It suggests that homocysteine breakdown is proceeding well and that your B vitamin status is adequate for this purpose, a favourable sign for this specific cardiovascular risk factor.
An elevated value
Elevated homocysteine may indicate a deficiency of vitamin B6, B12, or folic acid, reduced kidney function, hypothyroidism, certain medications, or a genetic variant. Our doctor provides explanation and context regarding next steps, this usually begins with attention to B vitamin status.
How we interpret your result
Our doctors interpret your homocysteine level against the reference ranges and your personal context, age, family history, B vitamin status, and any other relevant factors.
Related tests
Often combined with Homocysteine.
A single marker gives one perspective. For a broader picture you can combine Homocysteine with a theme package or related markers.
+ 29,- blood draw fee per orderFree from 225,-
Frequently asked questions
Everything you want to know
Do I need to fast for a homocysteine test?
Yes, for a reliable measurement you must fast for 12 hours. Drink water only during this period. Food, especially protein-rich food, temporarily raises the homocysteine level.
What is the difference between homocysteine and cholesterol?
Cholesterol is the best-known cardiovascular marker, but does not explain all cardiovascular disease. Homocysteine is seen as an additional risk marker, particularly with a family history where cholesterol is not evidently elevated.
Does folic acid supplementation lower my homocysteine level?
When there is a deficiency of folic acid, B12, or B6, supplementation often leads to a reduction in homocysteine. With a normal B vitamin status, supplementation usually has little additional effect.
Why does this test cost more than other markers?
Homocysteine requires a special, sensitive measurement method and a specific blood tube with rapid processing. That makes the test more expensive than most other single markers. The personal explanation from our doctor is always included in the price.
Is homocysteine measured in a standard check-up?
No, homocysteine is not included in standard GP investigations or most general blood tests. It is a specialist marker that is usually tested on request.
What is the relationship with B vitamins?
Vitamins B6, B12, and folic acid are cofactors in the breakdown of homocysteine. With a deficiency of any of these vitamins, homocysteine accumulates. An elevated homocysteine can therefore signal a functional B vitamin deficiency, even when the direct blood value of those vitamins appears normal.
How often should I measure homocysteine?
A single measurement is sufficient for initial insight. With follow-up of supplementation or with an elevated baseline, re-testing after 3 to 6 months is common.
What do I do with my result?
You will receive a PDF report with your value and explanation. What you do with it, such as discussing it with your GP or cardiologist, remains entirely your choice.
In the Health Guide
Read more about this value
Where do you give blood?
You can give blood at collection points across the Netherlands, usually without an appointment.
Find a collection point near you or read how a blood draw works.
Want to test multiple markers at once?
Combine Homocysteine with other markers via Bloodworks Select. The blood draw and collection fee is charged once per order, and is waived from 225,-.
Ready for insight into your homocysteine level?
You receive your homocysteine level including personal explanation from a doctor, typically within 2 working days. No referral required.