Methylmalonic acid

Methylmalonic acid

Clinical significance

Methylmalonic acid (MMA) is a substance produced in the body during the metabolism of certain amino acidsów. It is considered a sensitive and early indicator of vitamin B12 deficiency, whichóra acts as a factor in the conversion of methylmalonyl-coenzyme A into succinyl-coenzyme A. During vitamin B12 deficiency, the concentration of methylmalonyl-coenzyme A begins to increase, and the body begins to convert it into MMA. This causes an increase in the concentration of MMA in the blood and urine. Symptoms of high MMA concentrations include numbness of the stóp and hands, irritability, depression, and confusion. The increase in MMA concentration precedes the hematological symptoms of vitamin B12 deficiency.

Patient Preparation

Material: Serum