Total B12

[tomdickharry]

The NHS is still doing total B12 tests but private labs now only do active B12.

As there is no exact relationship between the two I'm trying to find a private lab that does total B12, with or without the active form.

It would need to be with a blood draw as I find it impossible to get enough from a finger prick.

Any advice, please?

[Nackapan]

Are you having b12 injections ?

[tomdickharry in reply to Nackapan]

Yes, self-treating but like to keep my eye on bloods. Have just checked active B12 at 150, which is good, but guessing that total B12 would be anything from 400 to 750 supposing that total to active ratio is from 5:1 to 3.5:1.

[Nackapan in reply to tomdickharry]

Try and go on how you are feeling .

Levels tested whilst on injections really not needed .

They should be high.

[SeasideSusie]

Blue Horizon

bluehorizonbloodtests.co.uk...

bluehorizonbloodtests.co.uk...

[tomdickharry in reply to SeasideSusie]

Thanks. I've looked at Blue Horizon but they operate in this area through Spire and have suspended testing as Spire are inundated with referrals from the NHS.

[FlipperTD]

Scientist, not medic.

It's refreshing to read a post from someone wanting Total B12! If you're injecting and your symptoms are under control/improving, then apart from your interest, there really isn't any need to measure B12 in any form, as it's clearly working. It's worth noting that different labs will use different methods and calibrators, so any result isn't immediately comparable with one from another organisation.

Likewise, it's good to note you recognise that phlebotomy is required, as a finger stab won't give enough sample. To be honest, even when a fingerprick does deliver enough, the venous blood sample is much, much better anyway.

Stay well.