Bay Leaf IgG

The Beta-Carotene test is a laboratory examination that measures beta-carotene levels in the blood or serum, crucial for assessing vitamin A status in the body. Beta-carotene, a pigment found in fruits and vegetables like carrots and leafy greens, is a precursor to vitamin A, essential for vision, skin health, and immune function. This test is vital for diagnosing vitamin A deficiency, which can lead to health issues such as impaired vision and weakened immunity. It also helps confirm carotenoderma, a condition marked by skin discoloration due to high carotenoid levels. Patients must fast for 12 hours and avoid alcohol and certain foods before the test. Blood is drawn and analyzed using high-pressure liquid chromatography (HPLC) to determine beta-carotene levels. Normal levels range from 50 to 300 mcg/dL, with deviations indicating potential health concerns. Despite its limitations, the Beta-Carotene test is a key tool in nutritional assessment and management.

Price of test:£34

The lowest price from the last 30 days: £34

Awaiting result:

One day

Collect material:

Blood

Prepare:

Learn more

Purpose of the test

The Beta-Carotene test measures blood levels of beta-carotene, a precursor to vitamin A, crucial for diagnosing vitamin A deficiency. Key points include:

- Purpose: Identifies risk of deficiency, confirms carotenoderma.
- Preparation: Fast for 12 hours, avoid alcohol and certain foods.
- Procedure: Blood sample drawn, protected from light, analyzed via HPLC.
- Results: Normal range is 50-300 mcg/dL; low levels suggest deficiency, high levels indicate excessive intake.
- Significance: Aids in diagnosing health conditions, though has limitations in specificity and sensitivity.

Who Should Get Tested

The Beta-Carotene test is essential for diagnosing vitamin A deficiency, which can lead to health issues like impaired vision and weakened immunity. Key points include:

- Purpose: Identifies individuals at risk of deficiency, confirms carotenoderma.
- Preparation: Requires fasting, avoiding alcohol, and certain foods.
- Procedure: Involves blood sample collection and HPLC analysis.
- Results: Normal levels range from 50 to 300 mcg/dL; low levels indicate deficiency.
- Clinical Significance: Aids in diagnosing fat malabsorption and managing health conditions.
- Limitations: High levels lack specificity; low values have poor sensitivity.

Blood Test Preparation Guidelines

Time of day

It is recommended to schedule your appointment for blood tests in the morning hours between 7:00-10:00.

Fasting

It is recommended to fast for approximately 12 hours before blood sampling. The last meal of the previous day should ideally be consumed around 6:00 p.m. On the day before the test, avoid heavy and fatty meals as well as alcohol.

Stay hydrated

Drinking water prior to testing can help with sample collection.

Other factors

Tests should not be performed after a sleepless night or intense physical activity. It is recommended to avoid exercise and stress immediately before blood collection and to not smoke. A short rest is recommended.

Medications and supplements:

Blood samples should be collected before the morning dose. Some drugs can interfere with test results. Consult with your doctor whether you can delay your dose because of lab tests.

Biotin supplements:

High doses of biotin supplements can affect test results, causing false elevation or reduction. It's recommended to avoid taking biotin for at least 72 hours before blood collection. If you are taking biotin, inform the personnel collecting the blood so that they can provide specific instructions.

Interpreting Test Results

Understanding test results is essential for interpreting the Beta-Carotene test effectively. Here's a brief guide:

- Normal Range: Typically 50-300 mcg/dL or 0.93-5.59 μmol/L.
- Low Levels: May indicate vitamin A deficiency, dietary insufficiency, or malabsorption disorders.
- High Levels: Often due to excessive intake of carotenoid-rich foods or supplements, potentially leading to carotenemia.
- Clinical Context: Results should be evaluated alongside other clinical findings for accurate diagnosis.
- Limitations: High levels lack specificity; low levels have poor sensitivity.

Price of test:£34

The lowest price from the last 30 days: £34

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