The body needs vitamin B-12 to produce healthy red blood cells, metabolize protein and fat, synthesize DNA and maintain proper neurological function. Because the body absorbs only a small percentage of vitamin B-12 from foods and supplements, high levels of vitamin B-12 occur only rarely. Underlying causes of increased B-12 levels have potentially serious health effects and typically require treatment.
B-12 Levels
A blood test can determine the level of vitamin B-12 in the blood. Normal B-12 levels typically fall between 200 and 900 picograms per milliliter, according to MedlinePlus Medical Encyclopedia. Levels above 900 pg/mL may indicate an underlying health condition.
Causes
Health conditions that can cause increased levels of vitamin B-12 include liver disease, such as cirrhosis and hepatitis, and myeloproliferative disorders, such as polycythemia vera and chronic myelocytic leukemia. If a B-12 test result reveals high levels of the vitamin in your blood, your doctor may look for signs of these diseases.
Treatment for Liver Disease
Lifestyle changes such as avoiding alcohol, limiting salt intake and maintaining a healthy diet can benefit patients with liver cirrhosis. In severe cases, patients with liver cirrhosis may need a liver transplant. Antibiotics, lactulose medication, vitamin K, diuretics and upper endoscopy can help treat complications of cirrhosis.
Treatment for Myeloproliferative Disorders
Myeloproliferative disorders cause an abnormal increase in red or white blood cells. In patients with polycythemia vera, phlebotomy can decrease blood thickness and chemotherapy can reduce the number of red blood cells produced by the bone marrow. A medicine called Imatinib can help treat chronic myelogenous leukemia.
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