Porphobilinogen (PBG) Qualitative Urine Test
Short Name: PBG Qualitative Urine
Also known as: PBG Urine Test, Urine Porphobilinogen Qualitative Test, Porphobilinogen Urine Test
Porphobilinogen (PBG) Qualitative Urine Test test available at DNA Labs India for ₹5,000. Uses Column Chromatography on Random urine samples. Results in Reports are generally issued the same day for samples submitted by 9 am on Tuesday or Friday.. Free home collection in 300+ cities across India.
🩺 Medically Reviewed By
Dr Ramarao Paidisetty
Consultant Biochemist · Reg: 21504
Last reviewed: September 7, 2026
Overview
The purpose of this test is to screen for acute porphyria, especially acute intermittent porphyria, by detecting elevated porphobilinogen in urine during an acute episode. It is a fast, non-invasive first-line investigation.
- Test Code
- 3570
- Price
- ₹5,000
- Sample Type
- Random urine
- Result Time
- Reports are generally issued the same day for samples submitted by 9 am on Tuesday or Friday.
- Fasting Required
- No
- Method
- Column Chromatography
Sample Collection
Inform your doctor about current medications and symptoms. No fasting is required. If possible, collect the sample during an acute attack.
Method: Random urine collection in a light-protected container
Laboratory Analysis
Collect random urine directly into the provided dark-coloured container and immediately wrap it completely with black paper or aluminium foil.
Report Delivery
Keep the wrapped container refrigerated and transport it to the laboratory as soon as possible.
Timeline: Reports are generally issued the same day for samples submitted by 9 am on Tuesday or Friday.
Patient Instructions
About This Test
Who Should Get This Test
The purpose of this test is to screen for acute porphyria, especially acute intermittent porphyria, by detecting elevated porphobilinogen in urine during an acute episode. It is a fast, non-invasive first-line investigation.
How to Prepare
- Use the dark vial/container provided by the laboratory.
- Collect at least 10 mL of random urine; minimum 5 mL is required.
- Wrap the container completely with black paper or aluminium foil.
- Ship the sample refrigerated or frozen.
- Do not expose the uncovered vial to light.
Doctor's Notes
Reviewed by Dr Ramarao Paidisetty — MBBS, MD (Biochemistry) · Reg. No. 21504
"In any patient with recurrent unexplained abdominal pain and neuropsychiatric features, ask for urine PBG during the acute episode. Sample protection from light is as important as the test itself."
Last medically reviewed: September 7, 2026
Test Parameters & Specifications
Sample Stability
- Uncovered vial exposed to light
- Sample not received refrigerated or frozen
- Insufficient urine volume (less than 5 mL)
Understanding Your Results
Negative
No porphobilinogen detected. Acute porphyria is less likely, especially if the sample was collected during symptoms.
Positive
Porphobilinogen detected. Suggestive of acute porphyria. Clinical correlation and quantitative confirmation are required.
Consult a doctor if you have unexplained abdominal pain with dark urine, confusion, seizures, weakness, rapid heart rate or neurological symptoms. A positive PBG result should be followed up promptly with a specialist.
Limitations
- ⚠This is a qualitative screening test and does not measure the exact concentration of PBG.
- ⚠A positive result confirms elevated PBG but does not identify the specific type of acute porphyria.
- ⚠False-negative results can occur if the urine sample is exposed to light or collected between attacks.
Risks & Considerations
- ●No significant risks. This is a non-invasive urine test.
Interfering Factors
- ●Exposure of urine to light can degrade PBG and cause a false-negative result.
- ●Prolonged storage at room temperature without protection may reduce PBG.
- ●Delayed transport to the laboratory may lead to unreliable results.
- ●Collection after the acute attack has resolved may show negative PBG even in confirmed porphyria.
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| Comparison | Porphobilinogen (PBG) Qualitative Urine Test |
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the Porphobilinogen (PBG) Qualitative Urine Test?
How much does the PBG Qualitative Urine Test cost in India?
Do I need to fast for the PBG urine test?
What is the sample requirement for this test?
When is the PBG urine test recommended?
What does a positive PBG urine result mean?
Can the PBG test be falsely negative?
What is the difference between qualitative and quantitative PBG tests?
What symptoms are associated with acute porphyria?
How should I collect the urine sample?
What is the turnaround time for the PBG Qualitative Urine Test?
Is home sample collection available for this test?
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