Porphyrins Total Qualitative Random Urine Test
Short Name: Total Porphyrins Urine (Qualitative)
Also known as: Porphyrins Urine Qualitative, Urine Total Porphyrins, Porphyrin Screen (Random Urine)
Porphyrins Total Qualitative Random Urine Test test available at DNA Labs India for ₹6,500. Uses Column chromatography on Random Urine samples. Results in Reports are generally issued the same day if the sample reaches the laboratory by 1 pm. The report can be accessed online, by email, or on WhatsApp.. Free home collection in 300+ cities across India.
🩺 Medically Reviewed By
Dr Ramarao Paidisetty
Consultant Biochemist · Reg: 21504
Last reviewed: September 7, 2026
Overview
This qualitative test measures total porphyrin levels in a random urine sample and is used to support the diagnosis of porphyrias, including acute intermittent porphyria, hereditary coproporphyria and variegate porphyria. It is ideally performed during an acute crisis when porphyrin excretion is likely to be increased.
- Test Code
- 3571
- ICD Code
- E80.2
- Price
- ₹6,500
- Sample Type
- Random Urine
- Result Time
- Reports are generally issued the same day if the sample reaches the laboratory by 1 pm. The report can be accessed online, by email, or on WhatsApp.
- Fasting Required
- No
- Method
- Column chromatography
Sample Collection
No fasting is required. The urine sample should ideally be collected during an acute crisis. Keep the dark container and aluminium foil/black paper ready before collection to protect the sample from light.
Method: Random urine collection in a light-protected container
Laboratory Analysis
Collect a random urine sample directly into the provided dark vial or container. Immediately wrap the container completely with black paper or aluminium foil. Do not add any preservative.
Report Delivery
Store the sample refrigerated or frozen as instructed. Transport it to DNA Labs India promptly while keeping it protected from light.
Timeline: Reports are generally issued the same day if the sample reaches the laboratory by 1 pm. The report can be accessed online, by email, or on WhatsApp.
Patient Instructions
About This Test
Who Should Get This Test
This qualitative test measures total porphyrin levels in a random urine sample and is used to support the diagnosis of porphyrias, including acute intermittent porphyria, hereditary coproporphyria and variegate porphyria. It is ideally performed during an acute crisis when porphyrin excretion is likely to be increased.
How to Prepare
- Use a dark coloured vial or container
- Wrap completely with black paper or aluminium foil
- Collect random urine preferably during acute crisis
- Do not use preservatives
- Keep the sample away from light at all times
- Transport refrigerated or frozen as per instruction
Doctor's Notes
Reviewed by Dr Ramarao Paidisetty — MBBS, MD (Biochemistry) · Reg. No. 21504
"This qualitative urine porphyrin test is most informative during an acute attack because porphyrin excretion can be higher at that time. A normal result does not completely exclude porphyria, and quantitative testing or genetic evaluation may be required."
Last medically reviewed: September 7, 2026
Test Parameters & Specifications
Sample Stability
- Sample received in an uncovered vial exposed to light
- Sample with preservatives
- Insufficient sample volume less than 5 mL
- Improperly labelled sample
Understanding Your Results
Negative
No excess total porphyrins were detected in the sample. If symptoms persist, clinical correlation and quantitative testing may still be needed.
Positive
Excess total porphyrins were detected in the sample. This supports the possibility of porphyria, but further quantitative and genetic testing is required to confirm the type.
Equivocal / Borderline
Results should be reviewed with the treating clinician. Repeat testing or additional investigations may be advised.
Consult a physician or clinical geneticist if the test result is positive or if you have recurrent acute abdominal pain, unexplained neurological symptoms, dark urine, or skin photosensitivity suggestive of porphyria.
Limitations
- ⚠This is a qualitative screening test and does not quantify individual porphyrin fractions
- ⚠A negative result does not exclude porphyria, especially if the sample was not collected during an acute episode
- ⚠Confirmatory quantitative porphyrin testing and genetic testing may be required
Risks & Considerations
- ●No significant risks; urine collection is non-invasive
- ●No fasting or dietary restrictions are required for this test
Interfering Factors
- ●Exposure of urine sample to light may falsely lower porphyrin levels due to photodegradation
- ●Use of preservatives can interfere with the assay
- ●Improper storage at room temperature for extended periods can affect results
- ●Some medications may affect porphyrin metabolism; inform your doctor about current medicines
Compare With Similar Tests
| Test | Porphyrins Total Qualitative Random Urine Test | Qualitative Random Urine Porphyrins | Quantitative 24-hour Urine Porphyrins | Genetic Testing for Porphyria |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Comparison | Porphyrins Total Qualitative Random Urine Test |
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the Porphyrins Total Qualitative Random Urine Test?
How much does the test cost in India?
Is fasting required for this test?
How should the urine sample be collected?
Why is the sample protected from light?
What conditions can this test help diagnose?
When should the sample be collected?
How long can the urine sample be stored?
What does a positive result mean?
What does a negative result mean?
Who can refer this test?
How long does it take to get reports?
Related Tests
Reference Laboratory Services
We serve as a reference laboratory for hospitals and clinics across India. Send samples from your facility with same-day pickup, priority processing, and results delivered through our online portal. Competitive institutional pricing available.
Your Data Privacy
Your medical data is protected under Indian law.
✓ Stored in India: All patient records are stored on servers located in India. No data is transferred outside the country.
✓ DPDP Act Compliant: Under the Digital Personal Data Protection Act 2023, you can request deletion of your records at any time by contacting support.
Book Your Test
Enter your details and we'll connect you within 15 minutes.