Vitamin B7 Biotin
The biotin test measures vitamin B7 levels in a frozen serum sample. Biotin is a water-soluble vitamin that helps the body convert food into energy and supports hair, skin, nail and metabolic health.
About this test
Biotin acts as an enzyme cofactor, meaning it helps certain enzymes carry out reactions involved in carbon dioxide transfer during fat, carbohydrate and protein metabolism. It also plays a role in niacin metabolism, amino acid breakdown and purine formation.
Quest describes biotin as sometimes used in weight reduction programs and sometimes prescribed as a supplement for people with diabetes because of its role in carbohydrate metabolism. It is also used in evaluating disorders of biotin metabolism, such as biotinidase deficiency or holocarboxylase synthetase deficiency.
Who might consider this test?
- Often being evaluated for biotin status in the context of diet
- A broader metabolic workup
Test details
| Quest code | 391 |
|---|---|
| Methodology | Bioassay |
| Sample type | 2 mL frozen serum - protect from light |
| Collection | Quest patient service center |
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Additional details
What this test looks at
The test reports a single value: biotin concentration in serum. Biotin (Vitamin B7) is the other name Quest lists for this same nutrient.
How it's often used alongside other tests
Quest describes biotin deficiency as associated with symptoms such as seborrheic dermatitis, hair thinning, muscle pain, heightened sensitivity to touch, and conjunctivitis. It also describes disorders of biotin metabolism, whether inherited or acquired, as including multiple carboxylase deficiency, a serious condition where delayed evaluation may lead to irreversible effects. A clinician weighs a biotin result alongside symptoms, history and any other markers ordered at the same time.
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 biotin test measure?
It measures biotin (vitamin B7) concentration in serum, using a bioassay method. Biotin acts as an enzyme cofactor in fat, carbohydrate and protein metabolism.
How is the sample collected?
The test uses a 2 mL frozen serum sample, protected from light, from a routine blood draw.
Do I need to prepare for a biotin test?
No preparation instructions are listed for this test, though people follow any instructions their ordering clinician provides.
Why might a clinician order a biotin test?
Quest describes biotin as sometimes used in weight reduction programs, sometimes prescribed for people with diabetes, and used in evaluating disorders of biotin metabolism.
What is biotin deficiency associated with?
Quest describes biotin deficiency as associated with seborrheic dermatitis, hair thinning, muscle pain, heightened sensitivity to touch, and conjunctivitis, along with more serious inherited or acquired disorders of biotin metabolism.
What does a Vitamin B7 Biotin test cost without insurance?
$380. Celio Health's price is a flat cash price and insurance is never billed: the required physician's order is included.