Plasma porphyrin scan
Description:
Plasma porphyrin scan is a test used to assess abnormalities in porphyrin metabolism and is particularly useful in the diagnosis and differentiation of the porphyrias. Plasma porphyrin analysis is performed by the SAS porphyria laboratory at Synnovis and measured using using fluorescence spectroscopy.
Clinical details:
Plasma porphyrin scan is a qualitative test that can be used with other porphyrin tests in urine and faeces to confirm a diagnosis of porphyria. When porphyrins are present in the plasma at elevated concentrations, fluorescence emission spectrophotometry will show a peak characteristic of porphyrins. The presence of this peak is indiciative of porphyria. The maximum emission wavelength of the peak, along with urine and faeces results, can help determine the type of porphyria. Non-porphyria increases in plasma porphyrins may also be seen in hepatic dysfunction, with certain toxins or drugs, and other acquired conditions affecting porphyrin metabolism.
Reference range:
N/A as qualitative test, however results will be reported as one of two statements: “Fluorescence emission scan of plasma: NO porphyrin peak detected.” or “Fluorescence emission spectrophotometry of plasma shows a peak characteristic of porphyrin: Excitation maximum = xxx nm Emission maximum = xxx nm”
Synonyms or keywords:
Plasma porphyrins, plasma porphyrin scan, plasma emission spectroscopy, plasma emission spectrophotometry
Units:
N/A
Department:
Location:
Sample type and Volume required:
250ul EDTA plasma minimum for plasma scan. For blood porphyrin screen (plasma scan + RBC protoporphyrin) 5 – 10 ml whole blood collected into EDTA (preferable) or lithium heparin.
Call in advance:
No
Turnaround time:
7-14 days
Storage and transport:
Store refrigerated. Send overnight at room temperature. Protect samples from light. If delay in dispatch, separate red cells from plasma and send frozen.
Contacts:
Porphyrin Laboratory at Blackfriars Hub
0208 078 8996
PorphyrinLab@synnovis.co.uk
Porphyrin Laboratory at Synnovis
Reference Chemistry, Floor One
Friars Bridge Court/ 41-43 Blackfriars Road/
London, SE1 8NZ
Reference Chemistry, Floor One
Friars Bridge Court/ 41-43 Blackfriars Road/
London, SE1 8NZ
Laboratory:
Last updated: 16/03/2026
