Homocysteine Test

A homocysteine test is a blood test that measures the level of homocysteine in the bloodstream. Homocysteine is an amino acid that is produced in the body during the metabolism of protein. High levels of homocysteine have been associated with an increased risk of heart disease, stroke, and other cardiovascular conditions.

The test is typically performed after an overnight fast, as food consumption can affect homocysteine levels. It is often used as part of a cardiovascular risk assessment, especially in individuals with a family history of heart disease or stroke, or other risk factors such as smoking, obesity, or high cholesterol.

A normal homocysteine level is typically between 5 to 15 micromoles per liter (umol/L). Elevated levels may indicate a higher risk of cardiovascular disease and may prompt further evaluation and management by a healthcare provider.

It is important to note that homocysteine levels can be influenced by factors such as medications, vitamin B12 and folate levels, and kidney function, so it is important to interpret the results in the context of a person's overall health status.