What does the Biotin (B7) - B7 blood test mean? Get a free analysis of your blood test now. Here's what you get with our free analysis:
Biotin, also known as vitamin B7, is a crucial water-soluble vitamin that plays a vital role in various metabolic processes. It's essential for the metabolism of fats, carbohydrates, and proteins. Biotin acts as a coenzyme for carboxylases, which are enzymes involved in gluconeogenesis, fatty acid synthesis, and amino acid metabolism. This test measures the level of biotin in the blood to assess nutritional status and identify potential deficiencies or excesses. Adequate biotin levels are important for maintaining healthy hair, skin, and nails, as well as supporting proper nervous system function and fetal development during pregnancy.
A low biotin level may indicate a deficiency, which can be caused by factors such as:
Symptoms of biotin deficiency may include hair loss, skin rashes, brittle nails, fatigue, and neurological symptoms. In severe cases, it can lead to developmental delays in children and increased risk of birth defects during pregnancy. Supplementation or dietary changes may be necessary to address the deficiency.
Elevated biotin levels are relatively rare but can occur due to:
High biotin levels are generally not associated with toxicity, as excess biotin is typically excreted in urine. However, very high levels can interfere with certain laboratory tests, particularly hormone and cardiac biomarker assays, leading to false results. This interference can potentially cause misdiagnosis or inappropriate treatment. If biotin levels are consistently high, it’s important to review supplement intake and consult a healthcare provider to rule out any underlying metabolic disorders.