Blood porphyrin screen

Description: 
The plasma porphyrin scan component of the blood porphyrin screen is indicated in the investigation of the acute porphyrias. The blood porphyrin screen at Synnovis comprises two components: a plasma porphyrin scan and red blood cell (RBC) protoporphyrins.This screening is primarily indicated in the investigation of cutaneous porphyrias. Additionally, the plasma porphyrin scan is also indicated in the evaluation of acute porphyrias.
Clinical details: 
For more information, see individual test entries plasma porphyrin scan and red blood cell protoporphyrins
Related condition or disease: 
Porphyria
Reference range: 

N/A

Units: 
N/A
Department: 
Reference Services
Location: 
Blackfriars Hub
Sample type and Volume required: 
5 - 10 ml whole blood collected into EDTA or heparin.
Call in advance: 
No
Turnaround time: 
7-14 days
Criteria for acceptance / rejections of sample
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
For clinical advice or interpretation of results, please contact the laboratory in the first instance.
Laboratory: 
Porphyrin Laboratory at Blackfriars Hub

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Last updated: 16/03/2026