The best results for this test happen when the urine is voided in complete darkness and poure directly into the collection jug in the dark or very dim indirect light. This test is useful in detecting specific liver abnormalities and is a good indicator test for patients suspected of having porphyria. Delta-ALA is a chemical produced from amino acids in the liver. The most important function of porphyrins are as components of heme. Heme is the major building block of hemoglobin.
Oxygen binds to the iron in the heme molecules.
Each step in the pathway requires a specific enzyme. If any of the enzymes is deficient, a type of porphyria results. Before starting this test be sure that you are not taking any drugs which may compromise the test results. Drugs that may increase test measurements include penicillin, barbiturates, oral contraceptives, and griseofulvin. Increased abnormal levels of urinary delta-ALA may indicate many types of porphyria.