Austin Pathology

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Porphyrins - Urine

Alternate Names
PBG screen, Urine PBG, urine porphobilinogen, acute porphyria screening (urine)
Ordering Information

Screening test for acute porphyria. 

Laboratory
Referred Test
Specimen
Urine
Container
See collection instructions
Collection Instructions
Send to the laboratory immediately
Collect at room temperature
Protect from light - wrap in foil
Additional Collection Instructions

Specimen may be either a full container of fresh urine (50 mL), or an aliquot of a 24 hour urine collection, no preservatives.

Minimum Adult Volume
50mL
Minimum Paediatric Volume
None
Notes

Urinary Porphyrins - Porphobilinogen (PBG) Screen: A negative screen has been shown to correlate with porphobilinogen levels less than 10 µmol/L. 

Urinary Uroporphyrin and Coproporphyrin: Uroporphyrin and coproporphyrin levels in urine are usually calculated only when the total level is > 300 nmol/L.

Frequency
Weekly
Reference Interval

This is a referred test. Please consult reference interval supplied with result.

Test Code
UPOR
Container ID
POT, U
Storage Instructions
Store at 4°C
Transport Instructions
Transport at 4°C
Additional Transport Instruction

Instructions for: Regional Specimen Receptions

  • Forward samples to Heidelberg at 4°C
  • Ensuring the pot is foil-wrapped thoroughly to protect from light. 
Laboratory Notes

Instructions for: Metropolitan & Regional Specimen Receptions

  • Ensure sample is foil-wrapped. If foil is tearing or breaking open, apply more to protect sample from light.
  • Place sample in 4°C sendaway tub.

Instructions for: Heidelberg Sendaways Department

  • Forward samples to referral laboratory at 4°C.
External Laboratory
Biochemistry, Melbourne Health Shared Pathology Service