Porphobilinogen, Quantitative, Random, Urine
Use
First‑order test for evaluating a suspected acute porphyria, including acute intermittent porphyria, hereditary coproporphyria, and variegate porphyria ([mayocliniclabs.com](https://www.mayocliniclabs.com/test-catalog/overview/82068?utm_source=openai)). It is recommended that collection occur during an acute symptomatic episode; porphobilinogen excretion may be normal when asymptomatic or decreased following treatment initiation ([mayocliniclabs.com](https://www.mayocliniclabs.com/test-catalog/overview/82068?utm_source=openai)).
Special Instructions
Ship specimen protected from light. Include current medications with submission. If not ordering electronically, complete and send a Biochemical Genetics Test Request (T798). Patient must abstain from alcohol for at least 24 hours prior to collection ([mayocliniclabs.com](https://www.mayocliniclabs.com/test-catalog/overview/82068?utm_source=openai)).
Limitations
No preservative necessary but specimen pH must be above 5.0; specimens with pH below 5.0 will be rejected ([mayocliniclabs.com](https://www.mayocliniclabs.com/test-catalog/overview/82068?utm_source=openai)). PBG is susceptible to degradation at high temperatures, on prolonged exposure to light, and at low pH ([mayocliniclabs.com](https://www.mayocliniclabs.com/test-catalog/overview/82068?utm_source=openai)).
New York Approved
Methodology
Mass Spectrometry (LC-MS/MS)
Biomarkers
LOINC Codes
- 2811-8
- 2811-8
- 59462-2
Result Turnaround Time
2-6 days
Related Documents
For more information, please review the documents below
Specimen
Urine
Volume
20 mL
Minimum Volume
15 mL
Container
Urine Container‑Amber, 60 mL (T596)
Collection Instructions
Collect a random urine specimen. No preservative necessary but pH must be above 5.0. Ship protected from light and freeze immediately.
Patient Preparation
Patient must not consume any alcohol for at least 24 hours before specimen collection.
Storage Instructions
Protect from light; freeze immediately following collection.
Causes for Rejection
Specimens with pH below 5.0 or not protected from light or not frozen immediately.
Stability Requirements
| Temperature | Period |
|---|---|
| Refrigerated | 7 days (light protected) |
| Frozen | 7 days (light protected) |