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MTHFR C677T/A1298C Mutations
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Genetic polymorphism test.
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MTHFR C677T/A1298C Mutations - Comprehensive Medical Test Guide
- Why is it done?
- Detects mutations in the MTHFR (methylenetetrahydrofolate reductase) gene, which encodes an enzyme critical for folate metabolism and DNA methylation processes
- Identifies C677T and A1298C polymorphisms that may affect enzyme function and homocysteine metabolism
- Evaluates risk for elevated homocysteine levels (hyperhomocysteinemia) and associated cardiovascular complications
- Assesses predisposition to neural tube defects, recurrent pregnancy loss, and thrombotic disorders
- Indicated for patients with elevated homocysteine, history of thrombosis, recurrent miscarriages, or family history of MTHFR-related disorders
- Used to guide supplementation decisions and personalize treatment strategies for cardiovascular and reproductive health
- May be performed during preconception counseling, prenatal screening, or evaluation of thrombophilia
- Normal Range
- MTHFR C677T Mutation: Two normal alleles (CC) = Wild-type/Normal; One mutant allele (CT) = Heterozygous; Two mutant alleles (TT) = Homozygous
- MTHFR A1298C Mutation: Two normal alleles (AA) = Wild-type/Normal; One mutant allele (AC) = Heterozygous; Two mutant alleles (CC) = Homozygous
- Interpretation:
- Negative/Normal Result: No mutations detected in C677T or A1298C positions; individual has two normal alleles at each locus
- Heterozygous: One mutant allele and one normal allele; modest reduction in MTHFR enzyme activity (approximately 35% reduction for C677T)
- Homozygous: Two mutant alleles; significant reduction in enzyme activity (approximately 65-70% reduction for C677T); greater potential for elevated homocysteine
- Compound Heterozygous: One C677T mutation and one A1298C mutation; intermediate enzyme reduction with variable clinical significance
- Units of Measurement: Genetic testing reported as genotype (allelic status), not numerical values
- Interpretation
- C677T Homozygous (TT):
- Most significant reduction in enzyme activity; enzyme function reduced to approximately 30% of normal; greatest risk for elevated homocysteine levels; studies show 2-3 fold increased risk of venous thromboembolism; associated with increased cardiovascular event risk
- C677T Heterozygous (CT):
- Moderate enzyme reduction to approximately 65% of normal; mildly elevated homocysteine possible, especially with nutritional deficiencies or other risk factors; modest increased thrombotic risk
- A1298C Homozygous (CC):
- Produces approximately 60% of normal enzyme activity; less severe than C677T homozygous; variable clinical manifestations; homocysteine elevation less consistent than with C677T TT genotype
- A1298C Heterozygous (AC):
- Minimal enzyme reduction; typically minimal clinical significance when alone; may have additive effects if combined with other thrombophilia factors
- Compound Heterozygous (CT/AC):
- One C677T mutation and one A1298C mutation; enzyme activity approximately 40-50% of normal; intermediate clinical significance; risk stratification requires consideration of environmental and nutritional factors
- Factors Affecting Results:
- Folate, B12, and B6 vitamin deficiencies potentiate homocysteine elevation
- Lifestyle factors including smoking, caffeine intake, and alcohol consumption affect homocysteine metabolism
- Renal function impairment reduces homocysteine clearance
- Estrogen therapy and certain medications (methotrexate, phenytoin) influence folate metabolism
- Age-related metabolic changes and comorbid conditions modify phenotypic expression
- Associated Organs
- Primary Organ Systems Involved:
- Cardiovascular system: MTHFR mutations increase homocysteine levels, a known risk factor for atherosclerosis, arterial and venous thrombosis, myocardial infarction, and stroke
- Reproductive system: Associated with recurrent pregnancy loss, preeclampsia, placental insufficiency, and neural tube defects in offspring
- Nervous system: Linked to neural tube defects during fetal development and potential neurocognitive effects
- Hematologic system: Abnormal folate metabolism contributes to impaired DNA synthesis and potential hematologic complications
- Diseases and Conditions Associated with Abnormal Results:
- Hyperhomocysteinemia and associated cardiovascular events including coronary artery disease, peripheral arterial disease, and cerebrovascular accidents
- Thrombophilia and increased risk of deep vein thrombosis, pulmonary embolism, and arterial thrombosis
- Recurrent pregnancy loss and subfertility; increased risk of preeclampsia and gestational hypertension
- Neural tube defects including spina bifida and anencephaly in offspring when combined with maternal folate insufficiency
- Chronic diseases potentially associated with abnormal folate metabolism including migraine headaches, autism spectrum disorders, and certain psychiatric conditions
- Potential Complications of Abnormal Results:
- Life-threatening thrombotic events requiring immediate anticoagulation therapy
- Permanent disability from stroke or myocardial infarction
- Adverse pregnancy outcomes including fetal loss and maternal complications
- Birth defects requiring surgical intervention and lifelong management
- Follow-up Tests
- Recommended Follow-up Testing Based on MTHFR Mutation Results:
- Homocysteine level testing: Measure fasting and post-methionine load homocysteine to determine actual enzymatic function impact and cardiovascular risk stratification
- Comprehensive metabolic panel including folate (serum and red cell), vitamin B12, and pyridoxal-5-phosphate (B6 levels) to identify nutritional deficiencies
- Comprehensive thrombophilia panel: Evaluate for Factor V Leiden, Prothrombin G20210A, antithrombin III, protein C and S deficiencies to identify compounded thrombotic risk
- Lipid panel: Assess total cholesterol, LDL, HDL, and triglyceride levels as additional cardiovascular risk factors
- Coagulation studies (PT/INR, aPTT): Baseline testing before considering anticoagulation therapy if thrombotic risk identified
- Renal function tests (creatinine, eGFR): Assess kidney function as reduced clearance worsens homocysteine levels
- Methylmalonic acid and homocysteine metabolite testing: Further evaluate B12 metabolism if deficiency suspected
- Additional Investigations for Specific Clinical Presentations:
- Cardiac evaluation: EKG, echocardiogram, or cardiac stress testing for patients with cardiovascular risk factors or symptoms
- Vascular imaging: Carotid ultrasound or CT angiography if thrombotic events suspected
- Obstetric ultrasound and fetal screening: High-resolution ultrasound to evaluate for neural tube defects in affected pregnancies
- Genetic counseling and family member testing: Cascade genetic testing for relatives with similar clinical presentations
- Monitoring Frequency:
- Homocysteine levels: Recheck 6-8 weeks after initiating supplementation or dietary modification; annually thereafter if stable on treatment
- Vitamin B levels: Monitor folate, B12, and B6 initially and annually to ensure adequate supplementation
- Clinical cardiovascular assessment: Annual evaluation for high-risk patients; more frequent assessment if symptoms develop
- Pregnancy monitoring: Monthly or trimester-based assessments for pregnant patients with significant MTHFR mutations
- Fasting Required?
- Fasting Status for MTHFR Genetic Testing: No fasting required
- MTHFR genetic mutation testing is a DNA-based genetic test that detects permanent genetic variations and is not affected by nutritional status, time of day, or recent food intake
- Patients may eat, drink, and take medications normally; no dietary restrictions necessary
- Can be performed at any time of day without timing considerations
- Specimen Collection Requirements:
- Blood sample: Typically 5-10 mL of whole blood collected in EDTA (purple top) tube or DNA collection tube, depending on laboratory protocol
- Buccal swab: Some laboratories accept saliva specimens or buccal mucosal swabs for non-invasive DNA collection
- Proper labeling with patient identification and date of collection is essential
- Patient Preparation Instructions:
- No special preparation necessary; patient may arrive at any time convenient for blood draw
- Bring valid photo identification and insurance card to collection facility
- No medications need to be discontinued; all prescribed medications may be continued as directed
- Inform phlebotomist of any bleeding disorders or anticoagulation therapy for collection precautions
- Note Regarding Concurrent Homocysteine Testing:
- If homocysteine level measurement is ordered simultaneously, fasting may be recommended (8-12 hours) for optimal homocysteine quantification, though MTHFR genetic testing itself requires no fasting
- Consult with ordering physician or laboratory regarding specific fasting recommendations for combination testing protocols
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