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Medical information Clinical review pending

Genetic Testing

Methylmalonic Acid Quantitative Serum Test

This test measures methylmalonic acid levels in the blood to help detect vitamin B12 deficiency and other nutritional issues. It is useful for individuals experiencing symptoms related to vitamin deficiencies.

General information only: This page is not a diagnosis or personal medical advice. A qualified clinician should decide whether testing is appropriate and interpret results in context.

Review status: No completed medical review is recorded for this page.

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Counselor guidance included Confidential handling Kenya-wide coordination

At a glance

Plan your test

Sample
Serum sample.
Results
Confirm with the laboratory before booking.
Preparation
No specific fasting is required. Confirm with the laboratory before booking.
Test priceKSh 7,000

Payment: M-Pesa and card options can be confirmed during booking.

Insurance & government schemes

Is this test covered for you?

We help you verify whether the Methylmalonic Acid Quantitative Serum Test test can be claimed against your insurer, employer scheme or a Kenyan government health scheme — before you book. Coverage depends on your plan, clinical indication and your provider's rules; final approval always rests with them.

Talk to a claims advisor

Providers & schemes we can help you check

Government & public schemes

SHIF — Social Health Insurance Fund Linda Mama EduAfya NHIF (legacy cards)

Eligibility and benefits follow the current rules of the Social Health Authority (SHA) and applicable government programmes.

Private insurers & employer schemes

Jubilee Health AAR APA Britam CIC Madison Resolution Pioneer Minet Old Mutual GA Life Heritage + other licensed insurers

Names shown for identification only — listing does not imply partnership or guarantee of coverage.

Have these ready when we check

  • Insurer or scheme name & policy / member number
  • A clinician's request / prescription for the test
  • Pre-authorisation letter, if your plan requires one

Free coverage check

Ask us to verify your cover

Send your details and our claims team confirms what documents you need and whether pre-authorisation applies — usually the same working day.

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Used only to process your coverage check — see our Privacy Policy. Verification support is free and does not guarantee your provider will pay.

01

Start with fit

Is this the right test for you?

The best test starts with a clear clinical question. These are common reasons a clinician or family may consider this test.

  • ✓Symptoms suggestive of vitamin B12 deficiency (e.g., fatigue, weakness, neurological symptoms)
  • ✓Monitoring patients with known B12 deficiency
  • ✓Individuals with dietary restrictions (e.g., strict vegans)
  • ✓Patients with malabsorption conditions
  • ✓Family history of metabolic disorders affecting B12
  • ✓Evaluation of unexplained macrocytic anemia
02

In plain language

What this test helps you understand

This test aids in the diagnosis of vitamin B12 deficiency, particularly when serum B12 levels are borderline or inconclusive. It can also help identify other metabolic disorders affecting MMA metabolism.
The Methylmalonic Acid Quantitative Serum Test measures the amount of methylmalonic acid (MMA) in your blood serum. This test is primarily used to help diagnose vitamin B12 deficiency, a condition that can affect nerve function and blood cell production if not addressed. Elevated MMA levels are often an early indicator of B12 deficiency, even when blood B12 levels appear normal. Understanding your MMA levels can guide appropriate treatment and management of nutritional deficiencies. This test is valuable for individuals with symptoms suggestive of B12 deficiency, those with dietary restrictions, or those with a family history of related metabolic conditions.
03

Medical review status

Clinical review pending

A completed medical review is not recorded for this page. No clinician has endorsed the information shown here. Please discuss testing decisions with a qualified healthcare professional.

Meet the DNA Labs Kenya medical team →
04

A simple process

What happens next?

You do not have to navigate the test alone. We help you move from question to next step.

1

Speak with us

We check the test and answer your questions before collection.

2

Give your sample

Choose home collection or a coordinated hub visit in Kenya. We explain whether this test uses a cheek swab or blood draw.

3

Understand your report

A counselor helps you understand the result and the next steps.

05

Choose your collection

Home collection or a lab visit

We will explain the sample, preparation, and next steps before anything is collected.

Home collection

Choose a coordinated visit at home or another convenient location. Our team confirms the appointment and sample requirements in advance.

Lab or hub visit

Prefer to visit a coordinated location? We can guide you to the right hub and explain what to expect when you arrive.

Ask about locations →
PreparationNo specific fasting is required. Confirm with the laboratory before booking.
SampleSerum sample.
MethodologyQuantitative measurement of methylmalonic acid in serum, typically using methods like Liquid Chromatography-Mass Spectrometry (LC-MS/MS).
PrivacyYour sample and report are handled confidentially. Ask the team how your information is stored and shared.
Certain medications or conditions may affect MMA levels. Results should be interpreted in conjunction with clinical findings and other laboratory tests.
06

Read your report

What common result terms mean

PositiveA finding was identified. Your clinician or counselor will explain what it means for your care.
NegativeThe specific finding tested for was not identified. It does not rule out every possible cause.
VUSA variant was found, but current evidence is not enough to classify it. Your counselor can explain follow-up.
07

Questions people ask

Frequently asked questions

This test measures the level of methylmalonic acid (MMA) in your blood serum. Elevated levels can indicate a vitamin B12 deficiency.
It helps diagnose vitamin B12 deficiency, which is crucial for nerve health and blood formation. Early detection allows for timely treatment.
Individuals with symptoms of B12 deficiency, dietary restrictions, malabsorption issues, or a family history of related conditions may benefit.
Generally, fasting is not required for this test. However, it is best to confirm specific preparation instructions with the laboratory before your appointment.
Elevated MMA levels usually suggest a vitamin B12 deficiency. Your doctor will interpret the results based on your overall health and other test findings.
08

Collaboration

Open for partnership with hospitals, clinics, doctors & researchers

Whether you are referring patients, building a research programme or supporting students, we work as an extension of your team — with responsive communication and clear scientific standards.

Hospitals & clinics

Referral pathways, coordinated sample logistics and shared reporting that fits your clinical workflow.

Doctors & specialists

LOINC-coded reports, ACMG-based variant classification and a direct scientific line for complex cases.

Research institutions

Sanger sequencing, NGS panels and custom assays — with project design support, batch pricing and agreed turnaround commitments.

Students & academic projects

Discounted laboratory services for college, master's and PhD research projects — including proposal guidance and cost-effective batch testing.

Explore partnerships
09

Trust & transparency

Sources, standards & how this page is maintained

Standards & references

  • ACMG/AMP technical standards for sequence variant interpretation
  • ClinGen curation and gene–disease validity frameworks where applicable
  • LOINC-coded reporting for interoperable results
  • ISO 9001:2015 quality management; ISO 15189 accreditation in progress

Page provenance

  • Last updated: September 27, 2026
  • Medical review: not yet completed
  • Written for patients & clinicians in Kenya; reviewed periodically against current guidance

Medical disclaimer: this page is general information, not a diagnosis or personal medical advice. Testing decisions and result interpretation should be made with a qualified healthcare professional.

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