Ulta Lab Tests

Nutrient Deficiency Panel for Proton-Pump Inhibitor Patients

The following is a list of what is included in the item above. Click the test(s) below to view what biomarkers are measured along with an explanation of what the biomarker is measuring.

Also known as: Iron Total

Iron, Total

Iron is a mineral that our bodies need for many functions. For example, iron is part of hemoglobin, a protein which carries oxygen from our lungs throughout our bodies. It helps our muscles store and use oxygen. Iron is also part of many other proteins and enzymes. Your body needs the right amount of iron. If you have too little iron, you may develop iron deficiency anemia. Causes of low iron levels include blood loss, poor diet, or an inability to absorb enough iron from foods. People at higher risk of having too little iron are young children and women who are pregnant or have periods.

Magnesium

Also known as: B12, B12 Vitamin, Cobalamin, Cyanocobalamin, Vitamin B12 Cobalamin

Vitamin B12

Vitamin B12 is part of the B complex of vitamins and measurea the levels of vitamin B12 in the liquid portion of the blood, the serum or plasma, to detect deficiencies. Cobalamine, or vitamin B12, is found in animal products such as red meat, fish, poultry, milk, yogurt, and eggs and is not produced in the human body. In recent years, fortified cereals, breads, and other grain products have also become important dietary sources of B12. Vitamin B12 is necessary for normal RBC formation, tissue and cellular repair, and DNA synthesis. B12 is important for nerve health. A deficiency in B12 can lead to macrocytic anemia. Megaloblastic anemia, a type of macrocytic anemia, is characterized by the production of fewer but larger RBCs called macrocytes, in addition to some cellular changes in the bone marrow. B12 deficiency can lead to varying degrees of neuropathy, nerve damage that can cause tingling and numbness in the affected person's hands and feet.
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The Nutrient Deficiency Panel for Proton-Pump Inhibitor Patients panel contains 3 tests with 3 biomarkers .

The Nutrient Deficiency Panel for Proton-Pump Inhibitor Patients is a diagnostic tool specifically designed to monitor and identify deficiencies in essential nutrients that are commonly impacted by the long-term use of proton-pump inhibitors (PPIs). PPIs are medications often prescribed to treat conditions like gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD), peptic ulcers, and Zollinger-Ellison syndrome by reducing the production of stomach acid. However, prolonged use of PPIs can interfere with the absorption of certain vitamins and minerals, leading to deficiencies that can cause significant health issues.

When and Why the Nutrient Deficiency Panel for Proton-Pump Inhibitor Patients May Be Ordered

This panel may be ordered for patients who have been on long-term PPI therapy, typically for more than a few months. It is particularly relevant for those who exhibit symptoms suggestive of nutrient deficiencies, such as fatigue, weakness, neurological symptoms, or unexplained anemia. It can also be ordered as a preventive measure in patients who are expected to be on prolonged PPI therapy to ensure early detection and management of potential deficiencies.

What the Nutrient Deficiency Panel for Proton-Pump Inhibitor Patients Checks For

The Nutrient Deficiency Panel for Proton-Pump Inhibitor Patients includes several critical tests to measure the levels of key nutrients:

  • Vitamin B12 (Cobalamin): Vitamin B12 is essential for red blood cell formation, neurological function, and DNA synthesis. PPIs can reduce the absorption of Vitamin B12 by altering stomach acidity, which is necessary for B12 release from food.
  • Iron: Iron is crucial for the production of hemoglobin, which carries oxygen in the blood. PPI-induced reduction in stomach acid can impair iron absorption, leading to iron deficiency anemia.
  • Magnesium: Magnesium is involved in numerous biochemical reactions, including muscle and nerve function, blood glucose control, and bone health. PPIs can decrease magnesium absorption, potentially leading to hypomagnesemia.

Conditions or Diseases the Nutrient Deficiency Panel for Proton-Pump Inhibitor Patients Can Detect

The Nutrient Deficiency Panel for Proton-Pump Inhibitor Patients can help detect several conditions associated with nutrient deficiencies:

  • Vitamin B12 Deficiency: This condition can lead to megaloblastic anemia, neurological symptoms like numbness and tingling in the hands and feet, and cognitive disturbances. The panel measures Vitamin B12 levels to identify deficiencies early, allowing for prompt treatment with supplements or dietary adjustments.
  • Iron Deficiency Anemia: Characterized by fatigue, pallor, and shortness of breath, this type of anemia occurs when iron levels are too low to produce adequate hemoglobin. The panel checks iron levels to diagnose iron deficiency and guide appropriate iron supplementation or dietary changes.
  • Hypomagnesemia: Low magnesium levels can result in muscle cramps, seizures, arrhythmias, and other severe symptoms. By measuring magnesium levels, the panel helps detect hypomagnesemia, enabling timely intervention with magnesium supplements or dietary modifications.

How a Healthcare Professional Would Use the Results of the Nutrient Deficiency Panel for Proton-Pump Inhibitor Patients

Healthcare professionals use the results of the Nutrient Deficiency Panel for Proton-Pump Inhibitor Patients to:

  • Diagnose and Treat Vitamin B12 Deficiency: If a deficiency is detected, the healthcare provider may recommend vitamin B12 supplements or dietary changes to increase intake of B12-rich foods, such as meat, fish, and dairy products. In severe cases, B12 injections may be necessary to ensure adequate absorption.
  • Address Iron Deficiency Anemia: Upon detecting low iron levels, the provider might prescribe iron supplements and suggest dietary modifications to include more iron-rich foods, such as red meat, beans, and fortified cereals. Monitoring and follow-up tests will be necessary to assess the effectiveness of these interventions.
  • Manage Hypomagnesemia: If low magnesium levels are identified, the provider may recommend magnesium supplements and advise increasing intake of magnesium-rich foods like nuts, seeds, and green leafy vegetables. Regular monitoring will help ensure that magnesium levels return to and remain within a normal range.

Conclusion

The Nutrient Deficiency Panel for Proton-Pump Inhibitor Patients is a vital diagnostic tool for monitoring the nutritional health of individuals on long-term PPI therapy. By assessing levels of Vitamin B12, Iron, and Magnesium, this panel helps healthcare providers identify and address nutrient deficiencies early, preventing serious health complications. With accurate and timely intervention, patients can maintain better overall health and mitigate the adverse effects of prolonged PPI use.

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