Vitamin B5 (Pantothenic acid)

Vitamin B5, also known as pantothenic acid, is an essential water-soluble vitamin that the body cannot store or produce in sufficient amounts. This test measures the level of vitamin B5 in a simple blood sample, helping to identify deficiency in patients who present with fatigue, neurological symptoms, skin disorders, or malabsorption conditions. It is also useful for monitoring nutritional status in individuals with restricted diets, chronic gastrointestinal issues, or those taking certain medications that affect nutrient absorption.

The analysis is typically performed using liquid chromatography-tandem mass spectrometry (LC-MS/MS), a highly sensitive and specific method for quantifying vitamin B5 in blood.

Biomarkers Included

• Vitamin B5 (Pantothenic acid): A key component of coenzyme A (CoA) and the acyl carrier protein (ACP), both essential for fatty acid metabolism, energy production, and the synthesis of hormones and neurotransmitters. Deficiency can lead to numbness, burning sensations in the feet, fatigue, and skin problems.

Why it matters

Vitamin B5 is critical for converting food into usable energy and for maintaining healthy skin, hair, and nervous system function. Low levels can contribute to a range of non-specific symptoms that are easily overlooked. Measuring vitamin B5 helps clinicians confirm suspected deficiency, guide appropriate supplementation, and rule out other causes of similar symptoms. Early detection and correction of deficiency can improve energy levels, support neurological health, and prevent long-term complications.