Vitamin B3
VIT B3
Description
"Vitamin B3" test evaluates blood levels of niacin, a B-vitamin essential for cholesterol metabolism, nerve function, and skin health. Low niacin can lead to fatigue, skin rashes, or even pellagra—a serious deficiency condition. This test is useful for identifying nutritional imbalances tied to poor diet, malabsorption, or alcohol use. Results inform care plans including niacin-rich foods or supplementation. Ongoing testing helps preserve neurological health, energy production, and healthy lipid levels over time.
Category
Vitamins
Procedure
Invasive
Sample Type
Blood – Plasma
Units
Micrograms per Milliliter | Micromoles per Liter
Procedure Category
Blood Draw
Test Group
Vitamin Group, Complete Nutrient Deficiency Group
Test Group Description
Complete Nutrient Deficiency Group: This comprehensive group includes an expanded panel of tests covering a wide range of vitamins, minerals, and other essential nutrients. Vitamin Group: This collection of tests encompasses a range of key vitamins crucial for physiological functions, aiding in nutritional status evaluation and deficiency detection.
Optimal Range
For All Individuals:
Conventional Unit: 6.00–8.00 µg/mL
SI Unit: 43.80–58.40 µmol/L
Normal Range
For All Individuals:
Conventional Unit: 0.50–8.45 µg/mL
SI Unit: 3.65–61.76 µmol/L
Results That Differ From The Norm (Direct and Indirect Causes)
Increased levels may indicate:
Excessive B3-containing food intake
Excessive vitamin B3 supplementation
Medications (such as niacin)
Decreased levels may indicate:
Alcoholism
Anorexia nervosa (Eating disorder ch...
Key Reasons For Testing
Nutritional Assessment: Evaluates niacin sufficiency through dietary intake.
Diagnosis of Deficiency: Identifies vitamin B3 deficiency to address issues like dermatitis and neurological symptoms.
Monitoring Deficiency Treatment: Tracks the success of dietary changes or supplementation for deficiency correction.
Evaluation of Malabsorption: Detects absorption issues caused by gastrointestinal disorders or c...
Health Status Conditions It May Be Used To Assess
Currently, this test is not directly associated with any conditions listed on the Health Status page. However, it may be included as part of a broader set of tests linked to specific health conditions.
Some Prominent Medical Labs That May Offer This Test
Please note that this particular test has not been associated with any of the listed prominent medical labs. We recommend enquiring with your private physician or nearest hospital to determine where this specific test can be performed.
References
Important Note
Any medical procedure yielding results outside the norm may be directly or indirectly linked to the conditions outlined on this page. Various factors, including genetics, medication and supplement usage, recent illnesses, pregnancy, pre-test eating, smoking, and stress, can impact the test's outcome. Additionally, factors like false positives, false negatives, inaccurate analyses, and others can influence results.
Reference ranges, which help healthcare professionals interpret medical tests, may vary depending on age, gender, and other factors. They may also differ between laboratories due to variations in instruments and methods used. Optimal ranges are designed for preventive purposes, aiming to identify trends and potential risks early, while normal ranges reflect conventional laboratory values indicating no current disease or pathology. Your healthcare practitioner may have specific reasons for testing that deviate from the usual or may interpret results differently based on individual circumstances. Proper interpretation typically involves considering clinical findings and other diagnostic tests. Hence, it is crucial to provide your healthcare professionals with a comprehensive medical history, consult with them for result interpretation, and follow their guidance for potential re-testing or additional diagnostics.
Disclaimer
This content is provided solely for informative and educational purposes. It is not intended as a substitute for medical advice or treatment from a personal physician. Regarding the interpretation of their medical test results and/or specific health questions, it is recommended that all readers and viewers consult their physicians or other qualified health professionals. The publisher is not responsible for any adverse health effects that may result from reading or following the information in this educational content. Before beginning any nutrition, supplement, or lifestyle program, all viewers, especially those taking prescription or over-the-counter medications, should consult their physician or health care practitioner.
Please note that while prominent lab names are included in this content, we cannot guarantee that these labs offer all the tests mentioned. For confirmation, individuals should contact the labs directly or consult their medical practitioners. The information provided reflects general knowledge at the time of publication and may not include recent updates or emerging research. Readers should verify details with qualified professionals to ensure the most up-to-date and accurate guidance.
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