Delta-ALA urine test

Delta-ALA Urine Test

The Delta-ALA Urine Test is a medical test used to measure the amount of a specific protein, delta-aminolevulinic acid (ALA) in a person’s urine. Delta-ALA is an amino acid that plays an important role in cellular energy production. It is produced during normal metabolism and is excreted in urine as a waste product. High levels of delta-ALA may indicate damage to the liver, brain, or peripheral nerves.

Preparation

Most of the time, no special preparation is required for this test. Your health care provider may ask you to stop taking certain medications that might interfere with the test, such as dietary supplements that contain biotin, vitamin B6, or iron.

Procedure

The Delta-ALA Urine Test is usually performed as an office procedure. Your provider will first take a sample of your urine and then send it to a lab for analysis.

Types

There are two main types of Delta-ALA Urine Tests: qualitative and quantitative. The qualitative test involves measuring the amount of the protein in the sample. The quantitative test measures the concentration of the protein in the sample.

Risks

No risks are associated with the Delta-ALA Urine Test. The only risks are those associated with collecting the urine sample, such as a slight risk of contamination.

Why Get Tested?

The Delta-ALA Urine Test is used to diagnose or monitor conditions associated with elevated levels of delta-ALA in the urine. These include certain liver diseases, such as hepatitis; certain brain conditions, such as neural tube defects; and certain peripheral nerve conditions, such as ganglion cell deficiency.

When To Get Tested?

Your health care provider might order the Delta-ALA Urine Test if you have any of the conditions associated with elevated levels of Delta-ALA, such as certain liver diseases, brain conditions, or peripheral nerve conditions. Your provider may also order the test to monitor your condition, or to make sure that the treatment you are receiving is working.