HomeAnswersRheumatologyhigh vitamin b12What causes an elevated vitamin B12 level without the use of supplements?

Should I be worried about my vitamin B12 level of more than 1476 pg/mL?

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The following is an actual conversation between an iCliniq user and a doctor that has been reviewed and published as a Premium Q&A.

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iCliniq medical review team

Published At October 1, 2021
Reviewed AtOctober 31, 2023

Patient's Query

Hello doctor,

I had pain in my right lower back following playing basketball. I consulted a physiotherapist, and he suggested me do some blood work for inflammatory markers, and the results were normal. I also did complete blood count (CBC), liver function test (LFT), kidney function, cholesterol, CRP, blood glucose, iron studies, vitamin D, thyroid function test (TSH, T3, T4), and vitamin B12.

Everything was normal, except vitamin B12 level, which came back as > 1476 pg/mL. I do not take B12 supplements. Should I be worried about this reading?

Kindly give your opinion.

Answered by Dr. Nupoor Acharya

Hello,

Welcome to icliniq.com.

Elevated vitamin B12 levels can be seen in certain blood-related conditions like myeloproliferative disorders. It may also be seen in some liver conditions. Since all the remaining values are normal, these conditions seem unlikely in your case. However, to be sure, you can repeat the tests in another six to eight weeks.

Regards.

Patient's Query

Hi,

Thanks for the reply.

Can consuming a sports drink right before blood work provide an elevated result for vitamin B12? Should I be concerned about pain in the soles and arch of my feet?

What would explain such a high reading of B12? Is this common or uncommon in healthy individuals?

Kindly help.

Answered by Dr. Nupoor Acharya

Hello,

Welcome back to icliniq.com.

It is quite a common scenario that we come across. The supplements you consume can have added vitamins that can lead to high readings. I suggest you avoid vitamin supplements or power drinks for a few days until you repeat the test. The pain you have in your feet and sole could be because of increased physical activity. I do not think that it is because of high vitamin B12.

Take care.

Same symptoms don't mean you have the same problem. Consult a doctor now!

Dr. Nupoor Acharya
Dr. Nupoor Acharya

Rheumatology

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