Urine Porphyrins

Abnormal levels of urinary porphyrins, oxidized metabolites of heme biosynthesis, are associated with genetic disorders, metabolic disturbances and diseases, anemias, oxidative stress, and high-level exposure to toxic chemicals or metals. Specific urine porphyrin profiles are associated with high-level exposure to mercury, arsenic, lead and some chemicals and drugs. Precoproporphyrins, associated with mercury, are reported separately and per unit of uroporphyrin to increase detection even when heme biosynthesis is low. This non-invasive test requires a single first morning void (FMV) or 24-hour urine collection.

Turnaround Time
3 to 5 days