Vitamin B6 Pyridoxine Test

The Vitamin B6 Pyridoxine EDTA Whole Blood test measures the level of vitamin B6 (pyridoxine) in whole blood.

• The test can help determine if a person has a deficiency or excess of Vitamin B6 and can guide appropriate treatment or nutritional interventions.
• The test can also be used to monitor people who are taking Vitamin B6 supplements to ensure they are not taking too much, as excessive intake of the vitamin can also have harmful effects.

If your test results show abnormal levels of vitamin B6, your doctor may recommend further testing to determine the cause and appropriate treatment. This may involve testing for other nutritional deficiencies, such as deficiencies in other B vitamins, or tests to rule out underlying medical conditions that may be affecting your vitamin B6 levels.

The test involves a simple blood draw, which is a standard medical procedure. During the test, a healthcare professional will use a needle to collect a small sample of your blood, usually from a vein in your arm. The blood sample will then be sent to a laboratory for analysis.

No special preparation is required for the test. However, it is recommended that you consult with your healthcare provider before taking the test, as they may have specific instructions or recommendations based on your individual medical history and current health status.

A Vitamin B6 Pyridoxine EDTA Whole Blood test is typically ordered when a person is suspected of having a deficiency or excess of vitamin B6. Some common symptoms associated with a vitamin B6 deficiency include:

1. Anemia
2. Depression and irritability
3. Confusion
4. Skin rashes
5. Cracked and sore lips
6. Weak immune system
7. Seizures
8. Numbness or tingling in the hands or feet
9. Difficulty in walking
10. Weakness or fatigue

Some individuals may be at a higher risk of developing a vitamin B6 deficiency, such as those who are:

1. Pregnant or breastfeeding
2. Vegetarians or vegans
3. Alcoholics
4. Elderly individuals
5. Individuals with malabsorption disorders
6. Individuals with chronic kidney disease
7. Individuals taking certain medications that interfere with the absorption of vitamin B6, such as oral contraceptives, anticonvulsants, and some antibiotics
8. Individuals who have undergone bariatric surgery

Depending on your medical condition and the reason for the test, your healthcare provider may order other laboratory tests in addition to the Vitamin B6 Pyridoxine EDTA Whole Blood test:

1. Complete Blood Count (CBC): It can help detect anemia or infection, which may affect the absorption or utilization of vitamin B6.
2. Comprehensive Metabolic Panel (CMP): It can help identify underlying conditions that may affect your vitamin B6 level, such as liver or kidney disease.
3. Homocysteine: This test measures the level of homocysteine, an amino acid that can accumulate in your blood if your body doesn't have enough vitamin B6 (as well as vitamin B12 and folate) to break it down. High homocysteine levels have been linked to cardiovascular disease.
4. Vitamin B12 and Folate: These tests measure the levels of vitamin B12 and folate in your blood, which are other B vitamins that work together with vitamin B6 to support various bodily functions, including nerve function, DNA synthesis, and red blood cell production.
5. Zinc: This test measures the level of zinc, a mineral that is involved in vitamin B6 metabolism and function. Low zinc levels may impair the conversion of pyridoxine to its active form, pyridoxal 5'-phosphate (PLP).