5-Amino Levulinic acid (5-ALA), Spot Urine
About 5-Amino Levulinic acid (5-ALA), Spot Urine test
5-Amino Levulinic acid (5-ALA), Spot Urine test is used to measure the amount of 5-Amino Levulinic acid (5-ALA), also known as Delta-aminolevulinic acid, in the urine.
Delta-aminolevulinic acid (ALA) dehydratase (ALAD) porphyria is a condition characterized by a lack of delta-aminolevulinic acid (ALA) dehydratase enzyme necessary for the production of heme, a crucial component of hemoglobin in the bloodstream. As a result of this enzyme deficiency, other compounds involved in heme synthesis remain unused and accumulate in the body tissues. These accumulated compounds, known as porphyrin precursors, become toxic when they reach high levels. In the case of acute hepatic porphyria, the buildup primarily occurs in the liver.
Therefore, getting this test done is recommended for the diagnosis of acute hepatic porphyrias
Symptoms of acute hepatic porphyrias
Abdominal pain
Nausea
Constipation
Tingling or numbness in the hands and feet
Muscle weakness
Problems urinating
Confusion
Dry, itchy skin
Skin scarring
Why is 5-Amino Levulinic acid (5-ALA), Spot Urine test done?
5-Amino Levulinic acid (5-ALA), Spot Urine test is recommended for individuals who have
Symptoms of porphyria or other ailments that can lead to abnormal urine porphyrins
Test preparation
Ensure your doctor is aware of what prescription drugs, over-the-counter medicines, or dietary supplements you are taking. Ask your doctor for details about pre-test preparations, and make sure to follow instructions closely
Interpretation of the Test Results
The units of measurement for the results are micromoles per liter.
|
Protein |
Reference range |
|
Aminolevulinic Acid - per volume |
0-35 µmol/L |
Deviation from normal levels indicates the following:
Increased levels of 5-ALA may be an indication of porphyria diseases
FAQs
How is the sample collected for the 5-Amino Levulinic acid (5-ALA), Spot Urine test?
A urine sample is used for this test. You will be given a sterile container by your healthcare provider to collect a urine sample.
Midstream urine collection is the proper technique for taking a urine sample. The first few urine drops should be discarded because they could contain microorganisms that are present on the genital surface. It is advised that you clean the area around your genitalia before taking a urine sample
What are the risks involved in the 5-Amino Levulinic acid (5-ALA), Spot Urine test sample collection?
Urine sample collection for 5-Amino Levulinic acid (5-ALA), Spot Urine test does not pose any risks
What is 5-Amino Levulinic Acid (5-ALA)?
5-ALA, a naturally occurring compound, plays a vital role in the synthesis of heme, an essential element of hemoglobin
Can medications interfere with the 5-Amino Levulinic acid (5-ALA), Spot Urine test results?
Certain medications like antibiotics, anti-anxiety drugs, birth control pills, and diabetes medications can potentially interfere with your test results. Therefore, it is important to inform your healthcare provider about all the medications you are taking before undergoing the test
Besides medical conditions, what other factors contribute to the elevation of ALA concentration?
Excessive exposure to alcohol, lead, and various other agents has been found to correlate with higher levels of ALA concentration
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