Active B12 Lab Test – At-Home Sampling

Do you want to measure the fraction of vitamin B12 that is available to the body's cells? This test analyzes holotranscobalamin—also known as active B12—using a liquid capillary blood sample collected at home. Results are displayed digitally in your personal health portal.

Test overview

• Sample collection entirely at home
• Liquid capillary blood from the fingertip
• Quantitative laboratory values
• Medical laboratory accredited according to ISO 15189
• Quality assurance according to Rili-BÄK
• Digital results in your personal health portal

What does the test measure?

Holotranscobalamin – active B12

Holotranscobalamin is vitamin B12 bound to the transport protein transcobalamin. This is the fraction that can be taken up by the body's cells; the marker can therefore provide information on the amount of biologically available B12.

Common symptoms and when the test may be relevant

The analysis may be relevant if there is a suspicion of insufficient B12 status, low intake, or factors affecting absorption, or for monitoring levels over time. A single value must be interpreted in the context of symptoms, diet, supplements, and other laboratory results.

• fatigue and weakness
• tingling or numbness
• difficulty concentrating
• paleness
• sore or burning tongue

The symptoms are not specific to B12 deficiency and may have other causes.

Who is this test for?

• For those who want to measure active B12.
• For those who follow a vegan diet or have a low intake of animal-based foods.
• For those who want to track a previous B12 level.
• For those who prefer home sampling.

How the at-home lab test works

1. Order the test. You receive a complete sampling kit at home.
2. Read the instructions. Prepare the materials and warm your hands to facilitate blood flow.
3. Take the sample at home. Prick your fingertip and collect liquid capillary blood in the sample tube according to the instructions.
4. Send the sample. Label, seal, and pack the sample, then send it to the laboratory using the return materials.
5. Laboratory analysis. The sample is analyzed using a quality-assured laboratory method.
6. View the result digitally. The laboratory result is displayed in your personal health portal.

Before sampling

Follow the instructions in the sampling kit. Dietary supplements can affect the result. Do not change prescribed medications or supplements without medical advice.

Laboratory and quality

The sample is analyzed at a medical laboratory accredited according to ISO 15189. The laboratory's quality assurance also complies with Rili-BÄK, the German medical association's guideline for quality assurance in laboratory medicine.

• Sample material: liquid capillary blood
• Sample collection site: at home
• Result: digital laboratory report
• Turnaround time: transport time and the scope of the analysis affect the total time

Results and reference values

You will receive a quantitative result—including the laboratory's unit of measurement and the applicable reference ranges—in your personal health portal. Reference ranges can vary between laboratories and are sometimes influenced by individual factors. An abnormal result is not a diagnosis in itself.

Do you want to analyze both total and active B12?

B12 Complete Lab Test measures both total vitamin B12 and holotranscobalamin.

Important information about the result

The test provides information on the analyzed markers but does not provide a diagnosis and does not replace medical assessment or treatment. Contact a healthcare provider in the event of abnormal results, clear or persistent symptoms, or concerns.

Frequently asked questions about active B12

What is active B12?

Active B12 is vitamin B12 bound to transcobalamin; it is the form that can be taken up by the body's cells.

Is active B12 the same as total B12?

No. Total B12 includes several protein-bound forms, whereas active B12 refers to holotranscobalamin.

Can B12 deficiency affect the nervous system?

Yes, deficiency can be associated with neurological symptoms, among other things. Seek medical attention if you experience tingling, numbness, or other new neurological issues.

Do B12 supplements affect the test result?

Yes, supplements can raise measured B12 levels, and this should be taken into account when interpreting the results.

How do I receive the result?

You will receive a digital laboratory report containing the value, unit, and the laboratory's current reference range.