Homocysteine is a sulfur-containing amino acid in the blood plasma. Elevation of homocysteine has been linked to a higher risk of cardiovasular disease (CVD). This elevation is significant in those where family history places them at risk for CVD.
Folic acid, Vitamin B6, and VitaminB12 help to prevent elevated homocysteine levels. Recent data shows that folate fortification of foods has reduced the average level of homocysteine in the United States.
Laboratory testing for plasma homocysteine levels may improve the assessment of cardiac risk, particularly in patients with a personal or family history of CVD, but with no well-established risk factors present such as smoking high cholesterol, or high blood pressure.