Ordering the Porphyrins Profile | Great Plains
The Porphyrins Profile from Great Plains is used to measure specific compounds in urine that can help identify metabolic issues related to porphyria and other disorders affecting the body’s ability to process certain chemicals. This test is often ordered when symptoms such as unexplained abdominal pain, skin sensitivity, or neurological changes are present, as these may be linked to abnormal porphyrin levels. Interestingly, some people with heavy metal exposure or certain environmental toxins may also show changes in porphyrin patterns, making this test useful in broader diagnostic situations.
Ordering the Porphyrins Profile provides several specific benefits:
- Detects abnormal porphyrin levels that may indicate inherited or acquired metabolic disorders.
- Helps pinpoint the cause of recurring symptoms like skin blistering, dark urine, or muscle weakness.
- Assists in monitoring the effects of treatment for porphyria or related conditions.
- Supports the identification of toxin exposure that may not be revealed by other tests.
- Offers a non-invasive way to gather important diagnostic information using a simple urine sample.
Who Should Consider a Porphyrin and Metabolic Disorders Lab Test
People who experience recurring, unexplained symptoms such as sudden fatigue, mood swings, or skin reactions after sun exposure may benefit from this test. For example, someone who notices their urine turns dark after a stressful event or illness might find this test helpful in uncovering a metabolic imbalance.
Ordering may also be appropriate in these situations:
- Recurring abdominal pain with no clear cause after standard testing.
- Episodes of confusion, memory loss, or hallucinations that come and go.
- Unexplained high blood pressure or rapid heartbeat, especially if other causes have been ruled out.
- Skin blistering or rashes that worsen with sunlight exposure.
- People with a family history of porphyria or who have been exposed to certain chemicals at work, as these exposures can sometimes trigger changes in porphyrin levels.
This test can help clarify the reason for symptoms by measuring specific markers in urine, which can guide further treatment or management. Delaying this test may result in ongoing symptoms or missed opportunities to address underlying metabolic issues early.
How to Prepare for a Metabolic and Porphyrin Urine Test
Fasting is not required for this urine test, but it is important to collect the sample as directed in the kit instructions. Always follow any directions given by your doctor or healthcare provider to make sure your sample is collected correctly and your results are as useful as possible.
Labs Included When Ordering Your Porphyrins Profile | Great Plains
| Test Name | Reference Range | What This Biomarker Means | Low and High Levels of Porphyrins Profile | Great Plains |
|---|---|---|---|
| Coproporphyrin I | 0–160 | Coproporphyrin I is a byproduct of heme production. It helps identify disruptions in the body’s ability to process porphyrins, which can signal metabolic or liver issues. |
High levels mean there may be a problem with heme synthesis, liver function, or exposure to certain toxins.
Low levels mean normal processing or possible underproduction, which is less commonly a concern. |
| Coproporphyrin III | 0–160 | Coproporphyrin III is another heme pathway byproduct. It is measured to help distinguish between different types of porphyria and to check for liver or metabolic problems. |
High levels mean possible porphyria, liver dysfunction, or heavy metal exposure.
Low levels mean normal metabolism or reduced porphyrin production. |
| Heptacarboxyporphyrin (7-CP) | 0–20 | Heptacarboxyporphyrin is a specific porphyrin that can build up when there is a block in the heme pathway. It helps identify certain types of porphyria. |
High levels mean a possible block in the heme pathway, often seen in hereditary porphyria.
Low levels mean normal heme synthesis. |
| Hexacarboxyporphyrin (6-CP) | 0–10 | Hexacarboxyporphyrin is another intermediate in the heme pathway. Its measurement helps further pinpoint the type and location of metabolic disruption. |
High levels mean a possible inherited or acquired block in porphyrin metabolism.
Low levels mean normal or efficient porphyrin processing. |
| Pentacarboxyporphyrin (5-CP) | 0–10 | Pentacarboxyporphyrin is checked to help diagnose specific types of porphyria and to monitor the effectiveness of treatment for these conditions. |
High levels mean a possible metabolic block or porphyria.
Low levels mean normal metabolism or successful treatment. |
| Precoproporphyrin (PreCP) | 0–5 | Precoproporphyrin is an early marker in the porphyrin pathway. It can help detect early or mild disruptions in heme production. |
High levels mean early signs of porphyria or metabolic stress.
Low levels mean no significant disruption in the pathway. |
| Uroporphyrins (UP) | 0–20 | Uroporphyrins are the earliest porphyrins in the heme pathway. Their measurement helps identify both inherited and acquired forms of porphyria. |
High levels mean possible porphyria or liver dysfunction.
Low levels mean normal heme metabolism. |
Reference ranges may change slightly as labs update their methods and guidelines.
Porphyrins Profile | Great Plains FAQ
Is there Porphyrins Profile | Great Plains testing near me?
This is a home test kit that you can collect locally, and you can check the draw location link at the top of the page for more details. For people dealing with unpredictable symptoms like skin sensitivity or sudden abdominal pain, having a convenient collection option means you can get tested quickly without waiting for a clinic appointment.
How do I interpret the test results?
While your treating physician should always review your results, you can also use our one-on-one test results review service with our clinical team for a detailed explanation and next steps.
What is the cost of the test?
The price listed for the Porphyrins Profile includes standard shipping to your address and return shipping to the lab, though draw fees may apply. Ordering this test can help you identify the cause of symptoms like unexplained fatigue or skin changes, so you can start targeted treatment sooner.
How often should I retest?
Retesting is usually recommended every 6 to 12 months, especially if you are monitoring a known metabolic disorder or tracking changes after treatment. Regular testing helps you and your doctor see if your treatment plan is working or if new symptoms need to be investigated.
How accurate is the test?
The Porphyrins Profile uses high-performance liquid chromatography (HPLC) with fluorescence detection, which is highly specific for porphyrin compounds. The test has a specificity of 98% and a sensitivity of 97%. TrueHealthLabs.com partners with CLIA-certified and CAP-certified laboratories to uphold rigorous testing standards for dependable results.
Important Notes
- This test can not be collected or mailed from New York State. Contact us with questions.
Medical Review Board
Reviewed by Jeff Donohue M.D. from Body Logic and Brady Hurst DC, CCCN. Written by True Health Lab’s team of editorial health contributors.
Disclaimer: This information is for educational purposes only and not intended as medical advice. Consult your healthcare provider for personalized guidance.
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