Vitamin B6

This test checks for Vitamin B6 levels in the body.

The B Vitamins are a group of water-soluble vitamins which all have an important and unique function in the functioning of the human body. Vitamin B6, also known as pyridoxal phosphate or PLP is a type of coenzyme which is mostly involved in the metabolism of amino acids and needed for the synthesis of hemoglobin. It is also needed to maintain a healthy immune and nervous system. It is found mostly is white meats like pork, fish and chicken, but there are other vegetarian sources of it. Deficiency of vitamin B6 is rare, but is seen in people with chronic alcoholism. Deficiency can lead to convulsions and decreased immunity.

This test is performed in following conditions such as:

• People with kidney or heart failure
• Chronic alcoholism
• Have liver cirrhosis
• Have hyperthyroidism
• Are taking anticonvulsants or corticosteroids medication
• Have any malabsorptive disorder

Also Known As: Pyridoxal-5-Phosphate, p5p