Vitamin B12 (Cobalamin) Test
The vitamin B12 test measures the amount of vitamin B12, also called cobalamin, in a serum sample. Clinicians use it to help evaluate decreased B12 levels.
About this test
Vitamin B12 is measured in serum using an immunoassay method. Quest describes decreased vitamin B12 levels as associated with pernicious anemia, total or partial gastrectomy, malabsorption, and certain congenital and biochemical disorders.
Because low B12 can relate to a range of underlying causes, from absorption issues to prior surgery, a clinician reads the result together with symptoms, history, and often other blood work rather than in isolation.
Who might consider this test?
- Others test B12 as part of a broader nutrient or wellness panel.
Test details
| Quest code | 10194 |
|---|---|
| Methodology | Immunoassay |
| Sample type | 1 mL serum |
| Collection | Quest patient service center |
Related tests and panels
Measures vitamin B12 in blood serum, a marker used in evaluating conditions…
Quest resources
Additional details
What this test looks at
The test reports the concentration of vitamin B12 (cobalamin) in serum, measured by immunoassay. Quest also lists this test under names such as cobalamin and B-12, which refer to the same measurement.
How it's often used alongside other tests
Because decreased vitamin B12 is associated with several distinct conditions, from pernicious anemia to malabsorption, it is often considered alongside other blood work rather than as a standalone answer. A clinician weighs the B12 result with symptoms and history to decide what, if anything, it points to.
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 vitamin B12 test measure?
It measures the amount of vitamin B12 (cobalamin) present in a serum sample, using an immunoassay method.
How is the sample collected?
The test uses a 1 mL serum sample from a routine blood draw.
Do I need to prepare for a vitamin B12 test?
No preparation instructions are listed for this test, though people follow any instructions their ordering clinician provides.
Why might a clinician order a vitamin B12 test?
Quest describes decreased vitamin B12 levels as associated with pernicious anemia, total or partial gastrectomy, malabsorption, and certain congenital and biochemical disorders.
Is vitamin B12 the same as cobalamin?
Yes. Quest lists cobalamin and B-12 as aliases for this same vitamin B12 measurement.
How much is a Micronutrient, Vitamin B12 test?
$29, paid once at checkout. The price includes the physician's order this test requires and sample collection at a Quest patient service center.