Related tests: protoporphyrin IX
Clinical significanceClinical indicationsSample typePreparationNotes
Clinical significance
Uroporphyrins are an intermediate product of the biosynthesis of haem, a structural component of haemoglobin. An increase is characteristic of the porphyrias, in which congenital or acquired enzyme deficiencies cause a block in the steps leading to the final synthesis of haem.
Clinical indications
Congenital and acquired porphyrias.
Sample type
Urine
Preparation
A urine sample must be collected.
Notes
For more complete information, testing for coproporphyrins and delta-aminolevulinic acid is useful.