Porphyrins, blood

Alternative names:

coproporphyrin levels; porphyrins, total; protoporphyrin levels; uroporphyrin levels

Normal values:

This test specifically measures total porphyrin levels, but reference values for the individual components are also included:

• total porphyrin levels: 16 to 60 mcg/dl
• coproporphyrin levels: < 2 mcg/dl
• protoporphyrin levels: 16 to 60 mcg/dl
• uroporphyrin levels: < 2 mcg/dl

Note: mcg/dl = micrograms per deciliter

What abnormal results mean:

Increased levels of coproporphyrins may indicate:

• congenital erythropoietic porphyria
• sideroblastic anemia

Increased protoporphyrin levels may indicate:

• infection
• thalassemia
• sideroblastic anemia
• lead poisoning
• iron deficiency anemia
• erythropoietic anemia
• increased erythropoiesis

Increased uroporphyrin levels may indicate:

• congenital erythropoietic porphyria
• erythropoietic protoporphyria