Tryptophan, Random, Urine
Use
This test aids in the screening and monitoring of Hartnup disease by measuring urinary tryptophan, an essential amino acid, which is metabolically critical for synthesis of serotonin, melatonin, and niacin. Hartnup disease is an autosomal recessive disorder characterized by impaired neutral amino acid transport, leading to increased renal excretion of tryptophan and potential niacin deficiency, resulting clinically in pellagra-like rash and neurological symptoms such as ataxia. ([mayocliniclabs.com](https://www.mayocliniclabs.com/test-catalog/Overview/83823?utm_source=openai))
Special Instructions
Not provided.
Limitations
Conventional amino acid profiling methods using ninhydrin or HPLC are limited by coelution with other compounds; this test uses LC‑MS/MS for interference‑free quantitation. Urine concentrations of tryptophan are not diagnostic in isolation and must be interpreted in the clinical context. ([mayocliniclabs.com](https://www.mayocliniclabs.com/test-catalog/Overview/83823?utm_source=openai))
Methodology
Mass Spectrometry (LC‑MS/MS)
Biomarkers
Tryptophan
Analyte
LOINC Codes
- 28608-8 - Tryptophan/Creat Ur-Rto
- 28608-8 - Tryptophan/Creat Ur-Rto
- 59462-2 - Clinical biochemist review
- 18771-6 - Provider signing name
Result Turnaround Time
3-5 days
Related Documents
For more information, please review the documents below
Specimen
Urine
Volume
2 mL
Minimum Volume
1 mL
Container
Plastic, 10‑mL urine tube
Collection Instructions
Collect a random urine specimen.
Causes for Rejection
All specimens will be evaluated at Mayo Clinic Laboratories for test suitability.
Stability Requirements
| Temperature | Period |
|---|---|
| Refrigerated | 14 days |
| Frozen | 70 days |
