Porphyrins - Blood
Alternate Names : Coproporphyrin Levels, Porphyrins - Total, Protoporphyrin Levels, Uroporphyrin Levels
Definition
This test measures total red blood cell porphyrins.
Porphyrins are pigments found in animals and plants. They are involved in the formation of many important substances in the body including hemoglobin, which carries oxygen in the blood.
Coproporphyrin, protoporphyrin, and uroporphyrin are three porphyrins related to red blood cells, which can normally be measured in small amount in the human blood stream. Protoporphyrin is normally found in highest quantity and thus this test is also known as the PROTO test. Additional tests are needed to know the levels of specific porphyrins.
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Why is the Test Performed?
This test is used to diagnose porphyrin disorders involving red blood cells. In combination with other tests, this test is useful for diagnosing disorders such as lead poisoning and some neurologic and skin disorders.
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