| Specimen Type | Specimen Stability | Reference Range |
| Whole blood-Lavender top tube | 8 days 2-8°C | Not Detected |
Specimen Requirements
5 mL Whole Blood
|
Method
PCR-Invader
|
Schedule
Tues, Thurs, Sat
|
Turn-Around Time
2-3 Days
|
Instructions/Notes |
Clinical Utility
Common mutations in the methylenetetrahydrofolate reductase (MTHFR) gene (C677T) and (A1298C) produce an enzyme with decreased activity which can result in a mild elevation of plasma homocysteine levels. Only individuals homozygous for C677T mutation or compound heterozygous for the C667T/A1298C mutations have significantly elevated plasma homocysteine levels. Heterozygotes for A1298C alone have no significant increase of plasma homocysteine levels. Triple variants or compound heterozygous and homozygous variants are rare. Double homozygotes have not been reported in the population. Mild elevation of plasma homocysteine levels is associated with an increased risk of atherosclerosis and thrombosis. In addition, hyperhomocysteinemia is found in women who have experienced two or more early pregnancy losses, placental infarction, and fetal growth retardation; however, MTHFR mutation as a cause of early pregnancy loss is still controversial. Elevated homocysteine levels can be treated by nutritional supplements. Other family members may benefit from DNA testing to revise the relative risk of atherosclerosis and thrombosis.
|
CPT Codes
83891, 83892, 83898x2, 83896x6, 83903, 83908, 83912; NOTE: New 2013 CPT: 81291
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