Test library
MMA Blood Test
The Methylmalonic Acid Blood Test measures MMA in the blood. Elevated levels can indicate vitamin B12 deficiency and support evaluation of related metabolic and nutritional conditions.
Order Methylmalonic Acid Blood Test
Order online and visit a local collection site, or choose an at-home kit where available. No referral and no insurance required.
Order Methylmalonic Acid Blood Test- Typical turnaround
- 1-3 business days
- Starting price
- From $198
- Results
- Confidential, online
Quick answer
The Methylmalonic Acid Blood Test measures the amount of methylmalonic acid, or MMA, in the blood. MMA is a byproduct of normal metabolic processes that rises when vitamin B12 is insufficient. Because it can be more sensitive than a B12 measurement alone, it is often used when a deficiency is suspected despite a borderline B12 result. It is usually interpreted with other tests.
What this test measures
Vitamin B12 is needed for proper function of certain enzymes, and when it is lacking, methylmalonic acid accumulates in the blood. This makes MMA a functional marker of B12 status rather than a direct measure of the vitamin itself. It is frequently ordered together with vitamin B12, folate, and homocysteine to give a fuller picture of metabolism.
Kidney function influences MMA levels, because the kidneys help clear the compound. A provider may therefore consider creatinine and eGFR when interpreting results. Elevated MMA can also occur in some inherited metabolic conditions, which is why the result is evaluated in context rather than in isolation.
People may order this test when B12 deficiency is suspected, when a B12 result is borderline, or when symptoms such as fatigue or tingling raise concern. A qualified healthcare provider interprets the result with the person's diet, medications, kidney function, and other laboratory findings, and decides whether further testing is needed.
- Methylmalonic acid (serum)
- Vitamin B12 when included
- Folate when included
- Homocysteine when included
- Creatinine and eGFR when included
- Complete blood count components when included
Why people order this test
- Evaluate vitamin B12 status with a functional marker
- Follow up on a borderline vitamin B12 result
- Support assessment of related metabolic or nutritional concerns
- Combine MMA with B12, folate, and homocysteine for context
- Monitor status over time when a provider recommends it
How to prepare
No fasting is usually required, but follow the laboratory's instructions on your order. Tell the collection staff about any vitamin supplements or medications you take, because they can influence the result.
Understanding your results
Results are typically available within one to three business days. An elevated MMA level may indicate insufficient vitamin B12 activity, while kidney function and other factors are considered at the same time. A qualified healthcare provider interprets the value with your history and other test results.
MMA Blood Test by state
Alabama
MMA Blood Test across Alabama.
Alaska
MMA Blood Test across Alaska.
Arizona
MMA Blood Test across Arizona.
Arkansas
MMA Blood Test across Arkansas.
California
MMA Blood Test across California.
Colorado
MMA Blood Test across Colorado.
Connecticut
MMA Blood Test across Connecticut.
Delaware
MMA Blood Test across Delaware.
Florida
MMA Blood Test across Florida.
Georgia
MMA Blood Test across Georgia.
Hawaii
MMA Blood Test across Hawaii.
Idaho
MMA Blood Test across Idaho.
Related tests
12 Panel Drug Test (Drugs of Abuse Testing), Hair
Compare 12 Panel Drug Test (Drugs of Abuse Testing), Hair options and order online.
12 Panel Drug Testing
Compare 12 Panel Drug Testing options and order online.
7 Panel Drug Test (Drugs of Abuse Testing), Hair
Compare 7 Panel Drug Test (Drugs of Abuse Testing), Hair options and order online.
9 Panel Drug Test
Compare 9 Panel Drug Test options and order online.
9 Panel Drug Test (Drugs of Abuse Testing), Hair
Compare 9 Panel Drug Test (Drugs of Abuse Testing), Hair options and order online.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is methylmalonic acid?
MMA is a compound produced during normal metabolism. It rises when vitamin B12 is insufficient, which makes it useful as a functional marker.
Why order MMA instead of just vitamin B12?
MMA can be more sensitive for detecting a deficiency, especially when the B12 result is borderline. The two tests are often interpreted together.
Can kidney function affect the result?
Yes. The kidneys help clear MMA, so kidney function is considered when the result is interpreted. Creatinine and eGFR may be included.
Do supplements affect the test?
Vitamin supplements can influence B12 and related markers. Tell the collection staff what you take so the result can be interpreted correctly.
Does an elevated result diagnose a specific condition?
No. It is one piece of information. A qualified healthcare provider uses it with your history and other findings to determine next steps.
Ready to get tested?
Order online and visit a collection site near you, or choose a mail-in kit. No referral and no insurance required.
Reviewed by the LabOrdering Editorial Team
Every page on this site is reviewed for clarity, sourcing, and accuracy. We update our library as testing options, collection networks, and accreditation standards change.