Transcobalamin

Also known as Vitamin B12 Unsaturated Binding Capacity (UBC)

You need to provide

Blood

This test is for

Male, Female

Understanding Transcobalamin

What is Transcobalamin?

Transcobalamin binds and transports vitamin B12 in the circulation. Transcobalamin deficiency is a disorder that impairs the transport of cobalamin (also known as vitamin B12) within the body. The first signs of transcobalamin deficiency are typical failure to gain weight and grow at the expected rate (failure to thrive), vomiting, diarrhea, and open sores.

This test is prescribed by the doctor in case a person you have signs or symptoms indicative of vitamin B12 deficiency anemia like pale skin, dizziness, oral ulcers, forgetfulness, confusion, and rapid heartbeat.

What is Transcobalamin used for?

If you have symptoms of gastro intestinal disease like difficolty gaining weight, repeated diarrhea and/or vomiting, dizziness
If you have signs or symtoms indicative of vitamin B12 deficinecy anemia like pale skin, dizziness, oral olcers, forgetfolness, confusion, rapid heart beat, poor appetite
If you have symptoms like tingling numbness in hands/feet, muscle twitching
If you have symptoms of liver disease or history of alcoholism

Interpreting Transcobalamin results

Interpretations

High levels of transcobalamine are rare and occur due to excessive nutritional supplements or injections
Low levels of transcobalamine usually indicate megaloblastic anemia due to vitamin B12 deficiency which can be due to poor intake in diet, poor absorption from gut like Celiac disease