Porphobilinogen PBG Test 24 hr Urine
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Test Code: 003103
Specimen Type: Urine
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Description:
Porphobilinogen PBG Test 24 hr Urine
The Porphobilinogen (PBG) 24 Hour Urine Test is used to aid in the diagnosis of a category of diseases known as Porphyrias. Porphyrias are a series of inherited disorders which can affect the skin, nervous system, or both. Porphobilinogen is involved in the production of porphyrins which are used in the production of heme, an essential component of hemoglobin. If the body is lacking in one or more of the enzymes necessary for this process, the porphobilinogen and porphyrins can build up in the body to dangerous levels. Porphyria can lead to complications such as dehydration, high blood pressure, liver or kidney disease, skin damage, and breathing difficulties. Measuring the levels of PBG excreted in the urine can help a person's doctor to diagnose and differentiate between different types of Porphyria.
PBG testing is typically ordered when a person is showing symptoms associated with Porphyria. This type of test is most often done as a follow up to a positive result on a PBG Random Urine Test. PBG testing is typically used to screen for Neurologic Porphyria which can cause symptoms such as nausea, abdominal pain, constipation, tingling or numbness in the hands and feet, muscle weakness, confusion or hallucinations. It may also be used to help rule out Cutaneous Porphyria which commonly causes blisters, scarring, redness, itching, burning and swelling on the skin when it is exposed to sunlight. Screening for Cutaneous Porphyria is typically done with a Porphyrins Urine Test.
Test results should be interpreted by a doctor who may determine if additional testing is necessary.
Turnaround for this test is typically 3-6 business days.
Where can I find a Porphobilinogen PBG Test 24 hr Urine Test near me?
Check our lab finder to locate a collection site in your area.
Note: Result turn around times are an estimate and are not guaranteed. Our reference lab may need additional time due to weather, holidays, confirmation/repeat testing, or equipment maintenance.
Requirements:
It may be necessary to discontinue certain medications that may impact the results of this Porphyrins Test. Please check with your doctor to determine if you are taking any medications which may affect this test.
For 24-hour urine specimen: Obtain a specimen container and instructions from the draw site. Void at 8 AM and discard the specimen. Then collect all urine including the final void at the end of the 24-hour collection period (ie, 8 AM the next morning) in the specimen container. Screw the lid on securely and return the container promptly to the draw site. The specimen must be kept refrigerated during collection.
If this test is being ordered along with any other blood and/or urine medical testing, it is recommended you have the specimen(s) for your other tests collected at the same time you bring the 24-hour urine specimen to the draw site.
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