Vitamin B12 Active Holotranscobalamin Test
Short Name: Active B12 (HoloTC)
Also known as: Holotranscobalamin, HoloTC, Active B12, Vitamin B12 Active (HoloTC)
Vitamin B12 Active Holotranscobalamin Test test available at DNA Labs India for ₹1,872. Uses CMIA (Chemiluminescent Microparticle Immunoassay) on Serum samples. Results in Sample reports are usually available the same day when the sample is submitted by 4 pm.. Free home collection in 300+ cities across India.
🩺 Medically Reviewed By
Dr Ramarao Paidisetty
Consultant Biochemist · Reg: 21504
Last reviewed: September 7, 2026
Overview
The purpose of the Vitamin B12 Active Holotranscobalamin Test is to measure the biologically available fraction of vitamin B12 and to help detect early or borderline cobalamin deficiency before total vitamin B12 levels become abnormal.
- Test Code
- 3732
- Price
- ₹1,872
- Sample Type
- Serum
- Result Time
- Sample reports are usually available the same day when the sample is submitted by 4 pm.
- Fasting Required
- No
- Method
- CMIA (Chemiluminescent Microparticle Immunoassay)
Sample Collection
No special preparation is required for this test.
Method: Venipuncture
Laboratory Analysis
A standard blood sample will be drawn from a vein in your arm by a trained phlebotomist.
Report Delivery
You may resume normal activities immediately after sample collection.
Timeline: Sample reports are usually available the same day when the sample is submitted by 4 pm.
Patient Instructions
About This Test
Who Should Get This Test
The purpose of the Vitamin B12 Active Holotranscobalamin Test is to measure the biologically available fraction of vitamin B12 and to help detect early or borderline cobalamin deficiency before total vitamin B12 levels become abnormal.
How to Prepare
- No special preparation is required
- No fasting is required
- Inform your physician about any supplements containing vitamin B12
Doctor's Notes
Reviewed by Dr Ramarao Paidisetty — MBBS, MD (Biochemistry) · Reg. No. 21504
"In clinical practice, HoloTC is particularly useful when total vitamin B12 is borderline and neuropsychiatric symptoms are present. A low level should prompt evaluation of dietary intake, absorption, and autoimmune gastritis."
Last medically reviewed: September 7, 2026
Test Parameters & Specifications
Sample Stability
- Visible haemolysis
- Sample received without proper labelling
- Sample in an incorrect container
Understanding Your Results
Normal active vitamin B12 status.
Borderline; clinical correlation and further testing are advised.
Indicative of vitamin B12 deficiency.
If you have symptoms suggestive of B12 deficiency such as fatigue, neuropathy, memory problems, or risk factors like malabsorption, autoimmune disease, or a strict vegetarian/vegan diet, consult a physician.
Limitations
- ⚠An abnormal HoloTC level does not identify the underlying cause of deficiency
- ⚠Total vitamin B12 and functional markers may still be needed to fully assess B12 status
- ⚠Clinical judgement is required to correlate with symptoms, blood counts, and other investigations
Risks & Considerations
- ●Minimal pain or bruising at the puncture site
- ●Lightheadedness during blood draw
- ●Very rare risk of infection at the puncture site
Interfering Factors
- ●Haemolysed or severely lipemic samples may produce unreliable results
- ●Recent intake of vitamin B12 supplements can elevate active B12 and mask deficiency
- ●Delayed sample processing or improper storage may lower the measured value
Compare With Similar Tests
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| Comparison | Vitamin B12 Active Holotranscobalamin Test |
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the Vitamin B12 Active Holotranscobalamin Test?
Why is Holotranscobalamin called active B12?
What is the cost of the test at DNA Labs India?
Do I need to fast before this test?
What sample is needed for the test?
How long will the report take?
Who should take this test?
What does a low HoloTC level mean?
Can I take this test while taking vitamin B12 supplements?
What is the difference between total B12 and active B12?
Is home sample collection available?
What is the normal reference range for Holotranscobalamin?
Related Tests
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