Δ-Aminolevulinic Acid, Random Urine
Also known as: ALA, Delta, Random Urine
Use
Diagnose porphyrias: Δ-ALA may be increased in attacks of acute intermittent porphyria; evaluation of certain neurological problems with abdominal pain; diagnosis of lead or mercury poisoning. Urinary Δ-ALA is not a sensitive indicator of lead poisoning in children because it does not increase until blood lead concentration is 40 μg/dL, well above the recommended level. ALA is increased also in tyrosinemia. Porphobilinogen and δ-aminolevulinic acid are the tests of choice for acute intermittent porphyria.
Special Instructions
For 24-hour urine testing, order Δ-Aminolevulinic Acid, 24-Hour Urine [096354]. It is crucial not to use first morning void, late evening specimens post 8 p.m., or samples post excessive fluid intake. Urine pH must be <7. Specimens must be frozen and protected from light to avoid delays in results when multiple tests are requested.
Limitations
This test was developed and its performance characteristics determined by Labcorp and has not been cleared or approved by the FDA. Specimens not collected or handled properly (e.g., exposure to light, not frozen upon receipt) may be subject to rejection, affecting the accuracy. ALA as a marker for lead poisoning in children is limited as its increase in urine only occurs at elevated blood lead levels (>40 μg/dL).
Methodology
Other
Biomarkers
LOINC Codes
- 11215-1
- 11215-1
- 2161-8
- 56658-8
Result Turnaround Time
3-6 days
Related Documents
For more information, please review the documents below
Specimen
Urine
Volume
3 mL
Minimum Volume
1 mL
Container
Plastic urine container with 0.5 mL of 30% acetic acid and amber plastic frozen transport tube and cap (Labcorp No. 78656)
Collection Instructions
Avoid first morning void or late evening specimens. Ensure pH <7. Transfer urine to amber plastic frozen transport tube, freeze immediately, and protect from light.
Storage Instructions
Freeze immediately and protect from light. The sample is stable with 30% glacial acetic acid for one month if frozen or 24 hours if refrigerated.
Causes for Rejection
Specimen exposed to light; specimen not received frozen
Stability Requirements
| Temperature | Period |
|---|---|
| Refrigerated | 24 hours |
| Frozen | 1 month |