What is analysed?
Vitamin K is an essential fat-soluble vitamin that plays an important role in various physiological functions, including blood clotting, calcium regulation, bone health, cellular growth, and antioxidant activity. The vitamin K test measures vitamin K levels in the blood.
What does the result mean?
The result indicates the concentration of vitamin K in the blood.
Why conduct the analysis?
The vitamin K test is conducted to evaluate dietary intake and absorption, and assess the risk of osteoporosis and blood clotting disorders.
When to conduct the analysis?
The vitamin K test is conducted when symptoms of vitamin K deficiency, such as excessive bleeding or frequent bruising, are observed. The analysis may also be conducted during monitoring of patients on long-term antibiotic treatment, as antibiotics can affect vitamin K-producing gut bacteria.
What sample is required?
A blood sample is used for the analysis of vitamin K levels. The blood is drawn from a vein, usually in the arm.
Is any prior preparation necessary?
Patients should fast for 8-12 hours before the blood sample is taken. In addition, patients should also inform a healthcare professional about any medications being taken, as they could affect results.
How is it performed?
The collected sample is sent to a laboratory, where it is analysed using high-performance liquid chromatography (HPLC) or immunoassay techniques to quantify vitamin K levels in the blood.
What are the normal values?
The table below shows the typical reference ranges of vitamin K levels in the blood by age group.
What does having altered values mean?
- Low levels: Low vitamin K levels indicate vitamin K deficiency, which can lead to an increased risk of impaired, unexplained or excessive bleeding, as well as a higher risk of fractures.
- Elevated levels: Raised vitamin K levels indicate liver disease or excessive vitamin K supplementation.