Methylmalonic Acid (MMA) Test
The Methylmalonic Acid (MMA) test measures the level of methylmalonic acid in a blood sample. Quest describes MMA as a functional biomarker for vitamin B12 status in adults, and the test is used in evaluating vitamin B12 deficiency.
About this test
Methylmalonic acid rises when vitamin B12 status is low, which is why Quest describes it as a functional biomarker for B12 status in adults. Quest notes the test is used when evaluating acquired vitamin B12 deficiency in adults who show signs such as peripheral neuropathy, ataxia, memory impairment, depression, behavioral changes, or anemia, particularly in elderly individuals or those with intestinal malabsorption.
The sample is analyzed using mass spectrometry to measure methylmalonic acid levels. Quest also describes MMA as part of universal newborn screening for organic acidemia, an inherited metabolic condition, since elevated levels in neonates and infants are associated with inborn errors of metabolism rather than acquired B12 deficiency.
Who might consider this test?
- Often being evaluated for vitamin B12 status
- Particularly older adults or people with a condition affecting nutrient absorption
- The test comes up as part of a newborn screening result that needs follow-up
Test details
| Quest code | 34879 |
|---|---|
| Methodology | Mass Spectrometry |
| Sample type | 2 mL serum |
| Collection | Quest patient service center |
Related tests and panels
Quest resources
Additional details
What this test looks at
The test reports one value: the level of methylmalonic acid in a serum sample. Quest lists MMA as an alias for this same measurement.
Order online and a physician order is included — no doctor's visit and no insurance needed. Your sample is collected at a Quest Diagnostics patient service center.
Laboratory results should always be interpreted by a licensed clinician who knows your health history. This page is information about a test, not medical advice.
Frequently asked questions
What does the MMA test measure?
It measures the level of methylmalonic acid in a serum sample using mass spectrometry.
How is the sample collected?
The test uses a serum sample from a routine blood draw.
Do I need to prepare for this test?
No preparation instructions are listed for this test, though people follow any instructions their ordering clinician provides.
How does MMA relate to vitamin B12?
Quest describes methylmalonic acid as a functional biomarker for vitamin B12 status in adults, used when evaluating acquired vitamin B12 deficiency.
Is MMA only used for vitamin B12 status?
No. Quest also describes MMA as part of universal newborn screening for organic acidemia, an inherited metabolic condition, where elevated levels reflect an inborn error of metabolism rather than a B12 deficiency.
How much does the Methylmalonic Acid test cost?
The cash price at Celio Health is $160. That covers the physician's order and sample collection at a Quest patient service center — no insurance is needed and there's no separate doctor's visit to pay for.