Sample type: Urine - Random

Test name: Porphyrins a.k.a. Porphobilinogen, PBG, porphyrin screen

Condition / Indication: Porphyria (Acute or Cutaneous) - First line test

Special precautions & notes: Early morning urine is preferred. Please discuss request with laboratory. Once collected, protect sample from light at all times (wrap in foil, place in thick brown envelope), and send immediately.

Reference range: Porphobilinogen (PBG): <10.2 umol/L. PBG:creatinine ratio: <1.5 umol/mmol. Total urine porphyrin(TUP):creatinine ratio: <40 nmol/mmol.

Container: Universal (white top)

Ideal volume (mL): 10 mL

Referred outside NBT for analysis? Yes

Discipline: Clinical Biochemistry

Turnaround time: 15 days

cavuhb.nhs.wales/our-services/laboratory-medicine/medical-biochemistry-and-immunology/porphyria-service-cardiff/sample-choice-strategies/

Referral location: Porphyria Service, Medical Biochemistry (Upper Ground floor), University Hospital of Wales, Heath Park, Cardiff, CF14 4XW