Overview of B12 Deficiency and Anemia of Chronic Kidney Disease

It is crucial to consider the timing of B12 tests, as B12 deficiency takes 3 to 5 years to develop. Confirming B12 deficiency with methylmalonic acid test is recommended as true B12 deficiency is rarer than perceived. Folate deficiency is uncommon and usually not tested unless there are specific risk factors present. Anemia of Chronic Kidney Disease (CKD) is usually not considered unless the Glomerular Filtration Rate (GFR) is less than 30, as mild anemia in CKD patients with GFR above this level may be due to other factors like low testosterone in aging males. Hemoglobin levels should be evaluated based on gender-specific reference ranges to avoid misinterpretation.