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Test Description
Porphyrin tests are diagnostic tools used to measure the levels of porphyrins in the blood, urine, or feces.
Porphyrins are essential compounds in producing heme, a critical component of hemoglobin in red blood cells.
Abnormal levels of porphyrins can indicate various types of porphyrias, which are rare disorders that affect the body’s ability to produce heme properly.
Indications of the Porphyrin Test
Porphyrin tests are primarily indicated for:
- Diagnosing porphyrias, a group of inherited or acquired disorders.
- Evaluating symptoms such as abdominal pain, skin sensitivity to sunlight, and neurological issues.
- Investigating potential lead poisoning or other related conditions.
Patient Preparation/Instructions
To ensure accurate results, patients should follow these instructions:
- Fasting: Do not eat for 12 to 14 hours before the blood test. Water is allowed.
- Sample Collection: For urine tests, a 24-hour urine collection may be required. Patients should collect all urine produced over a 24-hour period, starting from the first-morning void (excluding that sample) and ending with the last void at the same time the next day.
- A dark container is used to collect the urine.
Typical Reference Values
Reference values may vary by laboratory but generally include:
- Total Porphyrin Levels: 0 to 1.0 mcg/dL (0 to 15 nmol/L)
- Coproporphyrin Level: <2 mcg/dL (<30 nmol/L)
- Protoporphyrin Level: 16 to 60 mcg/dL (0.28 to 1.07 µmol/L)
- Uroporphyrin Level: <2 mcg/dL (<2.4 nmol/L)
Abnormal results may indicate specific types of porphyrias or other health issues.
Turnaround Time
The typical turnaround time for porphyrin tests is approximately 4 weeks, depending on the specific tests ordered and laboratory processing times
How Order This Test In Kenya
To order a porphyrin test, please click the ‘Order Test’ button and add it to your cart.
