Vitamin B2 Lab Test (Riboflavin) – Accurate Lab Testing for Deficiency Detection

Description

Vitamin B2 Lab Test – Comprehensive Analysis for Optimal Health

The Vitamin B2 (Riboflavin) Lab Test from Lab Tests Dubai is a specialized blood test that measures levels of riboflavin, an essential water-soluble B-vitamin critical for energy production, cellular function, and metabolic health.

Also known as Vitamin B2, riboflavin plays a vital role in:

• Converting carbohydrates, fats, and proteins into usable energy (ATP)
• Supporting red blood cell production
• Maintaining healthy skin, eyes, and nervous system
• Acting as a cofactor for glutathione reductase—a key antioxidant enzyme

Deficiency in Vitamin B2 is often underdiagnosed, yet it can lead to fatigue, anemia, and neurological symptoms—especially in individuals with poor nutrition, malabsorption, or chronic illness.

Using High-Performance Liquid Chromatography (HPLC), this EDTA whole blood test provides the most accurate assessment of riboflavin status—superior to serum testing.

Available with home blood collection and light-protected sample handling, Lab Tests Dubai ensures precise, reliable, and stress-free testing—so you can optimize your nutritional health with confidence.

Why You Need This Test

If you’re struggling with chronic fatigue, mouth sores, or unexplained neurological symptoms, this test could reveal a hidden vitamin deficiency.

You need the Vitamin B2 Test if:

• You have cracks or sores at the corners of your mouth (cheilosis)
• You experience a red, swollen, or magenta-colored tongue (glossitis)
• You suffer from frequent migraines or light-sensitive eyes
• You have anemia that doesn’t respond to iron or B12
• You’re on a restricted diet (vegan, elderly, alcohol-dependent)
• You have malabsorption disorders (Crohn’s, celiac, post-bariatric surgery)
• You’re taking medications that deplete B2 (e.g., antipsychotics, tricyclics, probenecid)

Riboflavin deficiency impairs mitochondrial function—leading to low energy and oxidative stress.

This test helps identify correctable causes of fatigue and nerve dysfunction.

Symptoms That Indicate This Test

Consider the Vitamin B2 Test if you experience:

✅ For Deficiency (Ariboflavinosis):

• Cracks or sores at the corners of the mouth (angular cheilitis)
• Swollen, smooth, or purple-red tongue
• Dry, scaly skin or seborrheic dermatitis
• Eye discomfort, sensitivity to light (photophobia), blurred vision
• Fatigue, weakness, or difficulty concentrating

✅ For Neurological & Metabolic Issues:

• Recurrent migraines (B2 supplementation reduces frequency)
• Peripheral neuropathy (especially in diabetics)
• Exercise intolerance or muscle cramps

✅ For High-Risk Groups:

• Vegans or elderly with poor diet
• Patients with gastrointestinal disorders
• Alcohol use disorder
• Premature infants or pregnant women with poor intake

These signs may point to B2 deficiency—and this test provides actionable insights.

Natural Production: Why You Must Get B2 from Diet

Vitamin B2 (riboflavin) is not produced by the human body—it must be obtained through diet or supplementation.

Rich Sources of Riboflavin:

• Dairy products (milk, yogurt, cheese)
• Eggs
• Lean meats (beef, chicken)
• Green leafy vegetables (spinach, broccoli)
• Fortified cereals and grains

Absorption & Storage:

• Absorbed in the small intestine
• Stored in small amounts in the liver, heart, and kidneys
• Excess excreted in urine (bright yellow discoloration)

Factors That Deplete or Impair B2:

• Alcohol consumption
• Chronic diarrhea or GI surgery
• Medications (oral contraceptives, antipsychotics, tricyclic antidepressants)
• Liver disease or hyperthyroidism

This test measures intracellular riboflavin in whole blood, offering a more accurate picture than serum levels.

What Happens If Untreated? Risks of Ignoring B2 Deficiency

Ignoring riboflavin deficiency can lead to:

⚠️ Severe Anemia – due to impaired iron utilization and RBC maturation
⚠️ Neurological Damage – peripheral neuropathy, cognitive decline
⚠️ Vision Problems – cataracts, corneal vascularization
⚠️ Worsening Migraines – B2 is a proven preventive supplement
⚠️ Growth Failure in Children – delayed development

The good news? Deficiency is easily corrected with:

• Dietary improvement
• Oral riboflavin supplements (30–100 mg/day)
• Addressing underlying malabsorption

Early testing = faster recovery and better energy.

How to Prepare for the Test

To ensure accurate results:

✅ No fasting required
✅ Avoid B2 supplements 24–48 hours before (unless monitoring therapy)
✅ Protect sample from light – riboflavin degrades in UV light
✅ Inform your doctor of:

• Current medications (especially those affecting absorption)
• History of GI disorders or alcohol use
• Recent diet changes or supplementation

A whole blood sample in EDTA tube, wrapped in aluminum foil, is collected via standard draw—available at our labs or via home collection with light protection.

Test Overview: HPLC-Based Whole Blood Analysis

Why Whole Blood + HPLC?

• Measures intracellular riboflavin (more accurate than serum)
• HPLC offers high sensitivity and specificity
• Gold standard for nutritional status assessment

Results are reported with reference ranges and clinical notes.

Benefits of the Vitamin B2 Blood Test

🔹 Pinpoint Nutritional Deficiencies
Identify correctable causes of fatigue, anemia, and nerve issues.

🔹 Support Migraine Management
Low B2 is linked to frequent migraines—supplementation helps.

🔹 Improve Skin & Eye Health
Resolve cheilosis, glossitis, and light sensitivity.

🔹 Optimize Metabolic Function
Support mitochondrial health and energy production.

🔹 Guide Supplementation
Ensure effective dosing and monitor treatment response.

If you’re tired of cracked lips, fatigue, or unexplained symptoms, the Vitamin B2 (Riboflavin) Test gives you the answers you need in 10 days—so you can finally feel your best.