Test Code LAB5468 Porphyrins Evaluation, Whole Blood
Performing Laboratory
Mayo Clinic Laboratories in RochesterReporting Name
Porphyrins Evaluation, WBSpecimen Type
Whole bloodOrdering Guidance
This is the preferred test for assessment for protoporphyria. The preferred test for assessing lead toxicity in children is blood lead. For more information see PBDV / Lead, Venous, with Demographics, Blood or PBDC / Lead, Capillary, with Demographics, Blood. The preferred screening test for suspicion of a hepatic porphyria is urine porphyrins. For more information see PQNRU / Porphyrins, Quantitative, Random, Urine.
Necessary Information
Include a list of medications the patient is currently taking.
Specimen Required
All porphyrin tests on whole blood can be performed on 1 collection tube.
Patient Preparation: Patient must not consume any alcohol for 24 hours before specimen collection.
Container/Tube:
Preferred: Green top (sodium heparin)
Acceptable: Dark blue top (metal free heparin), green top (lithium heparin), lavender top (EDTA)
Specimen Volume: 4 mL
Collection Instructions: Immediately place specimen on wet ice.
Reject Due To
Gross hemolysis | Reject |
Specimen Stability Information
Specimen Type | Temperature | Time | Special Container |
---|---|---|---|
Whole blood | Refrigerated | 7 days |
Specimen Minimum Volume
3 mL
Special Instructions
Day(s) Performed
Monday through Friday
Specimen Retention Time
14 daysReport Available
3 to 5 daysReference Values
PORPHYRINS, TOTAL, RBC
<80 mcg/dL
Reflex Tests
Test ID | Reporting Name | Available Separately | Always Performed |
---|---|---|---|
PPFE | Protoporphyrins, Fractionation, WB | Yes | No |
Useful For
Establishing a biochemical diagnosis of erythropoietic protoporphyria and X-linked dominant protoporphyria
Testing Algorithm
This test is recommended for screening patients for possible erythropoietic protoporphyria and X-linked dominant protoporphyria. In addition, it can be used for evaluation of iron-deficiency anemia and chronic lead intoxication. Testing begins with total erythrocyte porphyrins. If the result is below 80 mcg/dL, it is normal, and testing is complete.
If the total erythrocyte porphyrin value is 80 mcg/dL or above, the protoporphyrin fractionation assay will automatically be performed at an additional charge. The fractionation test results include noncomplexed (free) protoporphyrin and zinc-complexed protoporphyrin.
The following algorithms are available:
CPT Code Information
84311
82542-if appropriate
LOINC Code Information
Test ID | Test Order Name | Order LOINC Value |
---|---|---|
PEE | Porphyrins Evaluation, WB | 2814-2 |
Result ID | Test Result Name | Result LOINC Value |
---|---|---|
88886 | Total Porphyrins, WB | 2814-2 |
29356 | Interpretation | 59462-2 |
Forms
If not ordering electronically, complete, print, and send a Biochemical Genetics Test Request (T798) with the specimen.