Vitamin B6 Pyridoxal Phosphate

•  Test Name: Vitamin B6 Pyridoxal Phosphate Test.
•  Test Type: A blood test that measures levels of pyridoxal phosphate (PLP), the active form of vitamin B6.
•  Specimen Required: Blood sample (plasma).
•  Methodology: High-Performance Liquid Chromatography (HPLC) or enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) to quantify PLP levels.
•  Purpose: To assess vitamin B6 levels and diagnose deficiencies or monitor conditions that affect vitamin B6 metabolism.

• Assessment of Vitamin B6 Deficiency: Used to detect vitamin B6 deficiency, which can lead to anaemia, dermatitis, and neurological symptoms.
• Monitoring of B6 Supplementation: Monitors patients who are on vitamin B6 supplementation therapy to ensure appropriate levels.
• Diagnostic Tool: Helps diagnose conditions like seizures, anaemia, and peripheral neuropathy that may be linked to abnormal vitamin B6 levels.
• Evaluation of Metabolic Disorders: Assesses patients with disorders affecting vitamin B6 metabolism such as homocystinuria or pyridoxine-dependent epilepsy.

• Plasma Pyridoxal Phosphate Measurement: Quantifies the levels of PLP, the bioactive form of vitamin B6.
• Patient History Evaluation: Used alongside a clinical assessment to evaluate symptoms related to B6 deficiency or excess.
• Standardized Report: Provides a report with reference ranges to compare normal vs abnormal levels of PLP.

• Low PLP Levels: Indicative of vitamin B6 deficiency, which may lead to symptoms such as irritability, confusion, depression, and weakened immune function.
• High PLP Levels: May indicate excess vitamin B6, often due to over-supplementation, which can cause sensory neuropathy.
• Normal PLP Levels: Indicates sufficient levels of vitamin B6 for proper metabolic and neurological function.
• Clinical Correlation: Results should be interpreted in conjunction with clinical symptoms and dietary intake.

• Turnaround Time: Results are typically available within 1-2 business days.
• Report Format: Results are presented as a concentration of PLP in nanograms per millilitre (ng/mL) with reference ranges provided.
• Follow-up: Depending on the results, follow-up testing or treatment adjustments (e.g., supplementation or dietary changes) may be necessary.

Q. What is the Vitamin B6 Pyridoxal Phosphate Test?
It is a blood test that measures the level of pyridoxal phosphate (PLP), the active form of vitamin B6, to assess for deficiencies or excess
 

Q. Why would a doctor order this test?
A doctor may order this test if you have symptoms of vitamin B6 deficiency such as fatigue, irritability, or depression, or if you are on B6 supplementation
 

Q. What does it mean if my vitamin B6 levels are low?
Low levels suggest a deficiency, which can cause anaemia, neurological issues, and impaired immune function. Treatment usually involves dietary adjustments or supplementation
 

Q. What are the risks of having high levels of vitamin B6?
Excessively high levels of vitamin B6 can lead to nerve damage, causing symptoms such as numbness and tingling, particularly in the hands and feet
 

Q. How should I prepare for the test?
Fasting may be required prior to the blood draw. You should also inform your doctor about any supplements or medications you're taking, as they may affect your B6 levels
 

Q. How is the blood sample collected for this test?
A healthcare provider will collect a blood sample, usually from a vein in your arm, which will be analyzed for pyridoxal phosphate levels
 

Q. How long does it take to receive results?
Results are typically available within 1 to 2 days, and your doctor will interpret them in the context of your symptoms and health status