Age and ethnicity influence serum holotranscobalamin (‘Active’ B12) and methylmalonic acid concentrations, two markers of vitamin B12 status assessment. Download PDF Abstract Background Serum vitamin B 12 and holotranscobalamin (holoTC) are biomarkers of vitamin B 12 status, often used with confirmatory tests such as methylmalonic acid (MMA). Serum B 12 concentrations vary by age and ethnicity, but the impact of these factors on holoTC is unclear.
Methods HoloTC was measured in 61,193 samples from an ethnically-diverse hospital population in London (Jan 2022–Oct 2023). HoloTC <25, 25–70 and >70 pmol/L were classified as deficient, indeterminate and replete, respectively. MMA was measured in 12,233 patients with holoTC 25–70 pmol/L.
Results HoloTC concentrations differed significantly by ethnicity. Ethnic differences were minimal in children but became apparent in adulthood, with Black patients showing the highest holoTC concentrations, Asians intermediate, and White the lowest ( p < 0.001). Overall, 1.7% of patients were holoTC deficient and 25.3% indeterminate.
Medical Disclaimer: This article is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. Always consult with qualified healthcare professionals for medical decisions and treatment options.
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