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5-Aminolevulinic Acid (5-ALA) 24 Hour Urine Test

DNA Labs India | ISO 9001:2015 Certified

5-Aminolevulinic Acid (5-ALA) 24 Hour Urine Test

Short Name: 5-ALA Urine Test

Also known as: ALA Urine Test, 5-ALA Test, 5-Aminolevulinic Acid Urine Test

5-Aminolevulinic Acid (5-ALA) 24 Hour Urine Test test available at DNA Labs India for ₹5,200. Uses Column Chromatography on Urine samples. Results in Reports available within 1 week after sample receipt.. Free home collection in 300+ cities across India.

Urine TestAll Ages🏠 Home Collection

✍️ Written By

🩺 Medically Reviewed By

Dr Ramarao Paidisetty

Dr Ramarao Paidisetty

Consultant Biochemist · Reg: 21504

Last reviewed: September 7, 2026

Overview

The primary purpose of the 5-ALA 24 Hour Urine Test is to assist in the diagnosis of porphyrias, lead poisoning, and other disorders affecting heme metabolism. By measuring the urinary excretion of 5-ALA, healthcare providers can assess heme production abnormalities and guide further diagnostic workup or treatment.

Test Code
47
Price
₹5,200
Sample Type
Urine
Result Time
Reports available within 1 week after sample receipt.
Fasting Required
No
Method
Column Chromatography
Step 1

Sample Collection

Use a dark coloured container or wrap the urine container completely with black paper or aluminium foil to protect the sample from light. Ensure proper hygiene and record the start and end time of the 24-hour collection.

Method: 24 hour urine collection

Step 2

Laboratory Analysis

Collect all urine voided over 24 hours in the provided container. Store the container in a refrigerator or cool place during the collection period.

Step 3

Report Delivery

After collection, mix the urine well, measure the total volume, and aliquot 10 mL (minimum 5 mL) into a dark vial. Label the vial with patient details and 24-hour volume. Ship refrigerated or frozen to the lab.

Timeline: Reports available within 1 week after sample receipt.

Patient Instructions

1
Before the Test:Ensure proper collection setup with dark container. No fasting required, but stay hydrated.
2
During the Test:Follow the 24-hour urine collection protocol as instructed.
3
After the Test:Submit the sample to the lab promptly. Results will be available in 1 week.

About This Test

Who Should Get This Test

The primary purpose of the 5-ALA 24 Hour Urine Test is to assist in the diagnosis of porphyrias, lead poisoning, and other disorders affecting heme metabolism. By measuring the urinary excretion of 5-ALA, healthcare providers can assess heme production abnormalities and guide further diagnostic workup or treatment.

How to Prepare

  • Start collection after discarding the first morning urine.
  • Collect all subsequent urine for 24 hours, including the first morning urine of the next day.
  • Store container in refrigerator during collection.
  • Avoid exposing urine to light.
  • Record total urine volume on the request form.

Doctor's Notes

Reviewed by — MBBS, MD (Biochemistry) · Reg. No. 21504

"The 5-ALA test is essential for diagnosing porphyrias and lead poisoning. If you experience symptoms like severe abdominal pain, nausea, or dark urine, consult a gastroenterologist for evaluation."

Last medically reviewed: September 7, 2026

Test Parameters & Specifications

Sample TypeUrine
Sample Volume10 mL (5 mL min.) aliquot of 24 hour urine
ContainerDark coloured container or wrapped with black paper or aluminium foil
Collection Method24 hour urine collection

Sample Stability

Room TemperatureNot recommended
Refrigerator2 weeks
Frozen4 weeks
Sample Rejection Criteria:
  • Sample exposed to light
  • Uncovered vials
  • Insufficient volume
  • Incorrect collection time
  • Contamination

Understanding Your Results

Results of the 5-ALA 24 Hour Urine Test are interpreted based on the measured concentration of 5-ALA in the urine. Normal levels are between 1.5 to 9.2 mg/24 hours. Abnormal levels may indicate underlying conditions.
📊

Level: Below Normal

📊

Level: Normal

📊

Level: Above Normal

⚠️ When to Consult a Doctor:

Consult a doctor if you experience symptoms such as severe abdominal pain, vomiting, constipation, weakness, fatigue, dark urine, or if your test results show abnormal levels of 5-ALA.

Limitations

  • ⚠This test alone may not confirm diagnosis; additional tests may be required.
  • ⚠Results can be affected by certain medications or conditions.
  • ⚠Not suitable for emergency diagnosis.

Risks & Considerations

  • ●No significant risks associated with urine collection.

Interfering Factors

  • ●Exposure to light during sample collection or storage
  • ●Improper collection technique
  • ●Contamination of urine sample

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the 5-ALA 24 Hour Urine Test?
The 5-ALA 24 Hour Urine Test measures the level of 5-Aminolevulinic Acid in urine collected over 24 hours to diagnose disorders like porphyria and lead poisoning.
Why is this test performed?
It is performed to diagnose porphyrias, lead poisoning, and other conditions affecting heme production, especially in individuals with symptoms such as abdominal pain, nausea, or dark urine.
How should I prepare for the test?
Use a dark container or wrap it with black paper to protect the sample from light. No fasting is required, but ensure proper hydration and follow collection instructions.
What is the normal range for 5-ALA in urine?
The normal range is 1.5 to 9.2 mg/24 hours. Levels outside this range may indicate a disorder.
What do elevated 5-ALA levels indicate?
Elevated levels may indicate porphyrias (e.g., acute intermittent porphyria) or lead poisoning, as these conditions disrupt heme synthesis.
What do low 5-ALA levels indicate?
Low levels may indicate 5-ALA deficiency or other metabolic issues affecting heme production.
How is the urine sample collected?
Collect all urine over 24 hours in a dark container, store refrigerated, and send a 10 mL aliquot to the lab with the total volume recorded.
What is the cost of the test at DNA Labs India?
The test costs INR 5200 at DNA Labs India, with free home sample collection available across many cities in India.
How long does it take to get results?
Results are typically available within 1 week after the sample is received at the lab.
Is home sample collection available?
Yes, DNA Labs India offers free home sample collection for this test in numerous cities across India.
Can the test diagnose lead poisoning?
Yes, elevated 5-ALA levels can indicate lead poisoning, as lead inhibits heme synthesis enzymes.
What are the symptoms of porphyria?
Symptoms may include abdominal pain, nausea, vomiting, constipation, weakness, fatigue, dark urine, and irregular heartbeat.
Worried about the process? Our certified phlebotomists collect thousands of samples every month across India. The process takes under 5 minutes and is virtually painless. Questions? Message us on WhatsApp — we're here 7 days a week.

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