Porphyria Service General - Selection of the correct set of samples is essential for accurate diagnosis of the porphyrias.
Guidance is given below but contact the laboratory if further information is required.
Despatch samples by first class post to arrive in the laboratory within 24 - 36 hours of sampling between Monday and Friday. Samples should be protected from light before being despatched. A leaflet giving details of sample requirements is available on request. Faeces need only to be sent with the initial set of samples if the patient is a child, an adult with healing skin lesions or in clinical remission, or with renal failure. All three types of sample are essential if the type of porphyria is unknown or has not been unequivocally established by previous investigation.