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Homocysteine

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General Information:
Homocysteine is a byproduct of methionine metabolism, an amino acid that breaks down quickly and is present in very small amounts in the body. Elevated levels of homocysteine increase the risk of conditions such as cardiovascular diseases, stroke, Alzheimer’s disease, and osteoporosis (calcium loss from bones).

Homocysteine is broken down in two ways: either through the action of B vitamins or enzymatic processes. Vitamins B6, B12, and B9 (folic acid) play a crucial role in this breakdown. A deficiency of these vitamins leads to an increase in homocysteine levels in the blood.

Homocysteine can be an important marker for individuals at high risk of heart attack or stroke. It is also a significant indicator for diagnosing cardiovascular disease in individuals with a family history of coronary artery disease but without risk factors like hypertension, obesity, or smoking. Elevated homocysteine damages blood vessel walls and promotes blood clot formation, increasing the risk of atherosclerosis.

  • Perform the test 8 hours after the last meal. Avoid fatty foods during this period.
  • Do not smoke for 1 hour before the test.
  • Avoid physical and emotional stress for 1 hour before the test.
  • Suspected deficiency of vitamins B6, B12, or B9 (folic acid).
  • Homocystinuria.
  • Diabetes mellitus.
  • Dementia or Alzheimer’s disease.
  • Screening for individuals predisposed to coronary artery disease.

Elevated Homocysteine Levels:

  • Vitamin Deficiency:

    • Deficiency of folic acid, vitamin B12, or vitamin B6.

  • Hereditary Enzyme Defects:

    • Genetic defects in enzymes involved in homocysteine metabolism.

  • Other Causes:

    • Renal failure.
    • Psoriasis.
    • Proliferative diseases.
    • Hypothyroidism.

  • Lifestyle Factors:

    • Smoking, alcoholism, or excessive coffee consumption.

  • Medications:

    • Cyclosporine, sulfasalazine, methotrexate, carbamazepine, phenytoin, and 6-azauridine.

Elevated homocysteine levels are associated with increased cardiovascular risk and systemic metabolic issues. Managing these levels through vitamin supplementation and lifestyle changes can help reduce the associated risks.