The Homocysteine Quantitative, Serum test measures the levels of homocysteine in the blood. Homocysteine is an amino acid that is produced during the metabolism of another amino acid, methionine. While homocysteine is normally present in the body, elevated levels (a condition known as hyperhomocysteinemia) can be a risk factor for various health conditions, particularly those related to the heart and blood vessels.
The test is done using a blood sample, usually drawn from a vein in your arm. The sample is then analyzed to determine the concentration of homocysteine in your blood.