Methylmalonic Acid Quantitative Serum Test
Short Name: MMA Quantitative Serum Test
Also known as: MMA Test, Methylmalonic Acid Test, Serum Methylmalonic Acid Test
Methylmalonic Acid Quantitative Serum Test test available at DNA Labs India for ₹3,500. Uses LC-MS/MS on Serum samples. Results in Reports are typically available within 24-48 hours after sample collection.. Free home collection in 300+ cities across India.
🩺 Medically Reviewed By
Dr Pasupathy Arumugam
Consultant Pathologist · Reg: 21521
Last reviewed: September 7, 2026
Overview
The primary purpose of the Methylmalonic Acid Quantitative Serum Test is to diagnose vitamin B12 deficiency and monitor its treatment. It is also used to detect methylmalonic acidemia in pediatric patients. Elevated MMA levels serve as an early and sensitive indicator of cobalamin deficiency, even before other blood parameters become abnormal.
- Test Code
- 1234
- Price
- ₹3,500
- Sample Type
- Serum
- Result Time
- Reports are typically available within 24-48 hours after sample collection.
- Fasting Required
- No
- Method
- LC-MS/MS
Sample Collection
No special preparation required. Inform your doctor about any medications or supplements you are taking.
Method: Venipuncture
Laboratory Analysis
A healthcare professional will draw a blood sample from a vein in your arm.
Report Delivery
Apply pressure to the puncture site to prevent bruising. Resume normal activities unless advised otherwise.
Timeline: Reports are typically available within 24-48 hours after sample collection.
Patient Instructions
About This Test
Who Should Get This Test
The primary purpose of the Methylmalonic Acid Quantitative Serum Test is to diagnose vitamin B12 deficiency and monitor its treatment. It is also used to detect methylmalonic acidemia in pediatric patients. Elevated MMA levels serve as an early and sensitive indicator of cobalamin deficiency, even before other blood parameters become abnormal.
How to Prepare
- Fasting not required
- Collect 2 mL blood in SST
- Separate serum within 1 hour of collection
- Ship sample refrigerated or frozen
Doctor's Notes
Reviewed by Dr Pasupathy Arumugam — MBBS, MD (Pathology) · Reg. No. 21521
"Early detection of vitamin B12 deficiency through MMA testing can prevent irreversible neurological damage. This test is a sensitive indicator for cobalamin status."
Last medically reviewed: September 7, 2026
Test Parameters & Specifications
Sample Stability
- Hemolyzed samples
- Insufficient sample volume
- Improperly labeled specimens
Understanding Your Results
No indication of vitamin B12 deficiency or acidemia
Range: <0.4 μmol/L
Level: Normal
May suggest vitamin B12 deficiency in adults or methylmalonic acidemia in children. Correlate with serum B12 levels and clinical symptoms.
Range: >0.4 μmol/L
Level: Elevated
If you experience symptoms such as weakness, fatigue, numbness, or if your MMA test results are elevated, consult your doctor for further evaluation and management.
Limitations
- ⚠Not a standalone diagnostic tool; should be correlated with clinical symptoms and other tests
- ⚠Results may vary based on lab methodology
- ⚠May not distinguish between dietary deficiency and malabsorption without additional tests
Risks & Considerations
- ●Minor bruising or discomfort at the blood draw site
- ●Rare risk of infection or fainting
Interfering Factors
- ●Certain medications like metformin can elevate MMA levels
- ●Kidney dysfunction may affect results
- ●Recent vitamin B12 intake
Compare With Similar Tests
| Test | Methylmalonic Acid Quantitative Serum Test | Serum Vitamin B12 Test | Homocysteine Test |
|---|---|---|---|
| Comparison | Methylmalonic Acid Quantitative Serum Test |
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the Methylmalonic Acid Quantitative Serum Test?
Why is this test done?
What does an elevated MMA level indicate?
How is the test performed?
Is fasting required for this test?
What is the cost of the MMA test in India?
How long does it take to get the results?
Are there any risks associated with the test?
How accurate is the MMA test?
Can the MMA test diagnose vitamin B12 deficiency?
What other tests are needed along with MMA?
Is home sample collection available for this test?
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