Delta Aminolevulinic Acid, Random Urine
Also known as: Delta-ALA, Porphyria, Aminolevulinic Acid, D-Aminolevulinic Acid, D-ALA
Use
The Delta‑aminolevulinic acid (ALA) random urine test assists in diagnosing conditions that disrupt heme synthesis—including inherited acute hepatic porphyrias and acquired causes like heavy metal poisoning—as well as aiding in differential diagnosis of acute hepatic porphyrias. It is useful when a 24‑hour collection is impractical and can still provide clinically relevant insight into elevated ALA levels.
Special Instructions
Specimen must be random urine, protected from light and processed under conditions that avoid light exposure; avoid first‑morning or late‑evening specimens, or those after excessive fluid intake. To minimize delays when ordering multiple frozen samples, submit separate samples for each test. Patients should avoid alcohol for 24 hours prior to collection.
Limitations
Not provided.
Methodology
Chromatography
Biomarkers
Result Turnaround Time
Not provided.
Related Documents
For more information, please review the documents below
Specimen
Urine
Volume
3 mL (preferred)
Minimum Volume
1 mL
Container
Plastic urine container with 0.5 mL of 30% glacial acetic acid, amber plastic frozen transport tube and cap, or wrapped in aluminum foil
Collection Instructions
Collect random urine; avoid first‑morning void, late evening (after 8 pm), or after excessive fluid intake; pH must be <7; protect from light, freeze immediately and keep frozen until tested; submit separate frozen samples if ordering multiple tests.
Patient Preparation
Refrain from alcohol consumption for 24 hours prior to collection.
Storage Instructions
Frozen and protected from light; refrigerated acceptable for limited time (refrigerated: 3 days, frozen: 1 month).
Causes for Rejection
Specimen exposed to light; received not frozen
Stability Requirements
| Temperature | Period |
|---|---|
| Refrigerated | 3 days |
| Frozen | 1 month |