Immunoassay for Antibodies to Porphyria Cutanea Tarda (PCT) – Plasma
This test measures antibodies related to a rare liver disorder called Porphyria Cutanea Tarda (PCT). It helps assess immune response to the condition.
["This test supports diagnosis or monitoring of PCT-related immune activity."]
Key facts at a glance
- LOINC
- 85824-1
- Short code
- BLAMP
- Synonyms
- blaIMP Islt Ql NAA+probe
- Category
- chemistry
- Sample
- serum
- Container
- Sterile, leak-proof container; serum separator tube (SST) or plain red-top tube for serum collection; for suspected positive blood cultures, appropriate blood culture bottles or isolated colonies on culture media may also be accepted
- Units
- N/A
- Fasting
- false
- Population
- adult
- Sex
- all
- Age range
- ≥ 0 years
- Method
- probe-amp-tar
- CPT
- 87798 (unlisted infectious agent detection by nucleic acid; may also use 87500-87999 range for specific molecular pathogen detection)
- SNOMED
- 122451000146107
- Specimen volume
- Minimum 1-2 mL serum; 3-5 mL whole blood preferred
- Stability
- Room temperature: 24 hours; Refrigerated (2-8°C): 7 days; Frozen (-20°C or lower): 30 days for nucleic acid preservation
- Hemolysis max
- 500
- Lipemia max
- 1000
- Icterus max
- 500
- TAT
- 4–24 hours
- Order
- routine
Why This Test Might Be Ordered
Your healthcare provider may recommend this test if you have symptoms of PCT, such as blistering skin lesions, or if you have a history of liver disease. It may also be used to evaluate immune responses in patients suspected of having PCT or related conditions.
How the Test Works
Blood is drawn and processed to separate plasma. The test uses an immunoassay method to detect specific antibodies linked to PCT. This method identifies the presence and level of these antibodies in your plasma.
Sample Collection and Preparation
A small amount of blood is collected from a vein in your arm. The blood is then sent to a lab where it is processed to isolate plasma. This plasma sample is analyzed for the presence of PCT-related antibodies.
What to Expect Before the Test
No special preparation is typically required. You may have some mild discomfort from the needle, but it usually goes away quickly. Avoid alcohol for 24 hours before the test if instructed by your provider.
Reference range
Negative (blaIMP gene not detected)N/A
No fasting required. Specimen should be collected prior to initiation of antimicrobial therapy when possible. For follow-up testing, specimen may be collected during or after antibiotic administration.
Clinical interpretation
How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.
Elevated antibody levels may indicate an active immune response associated with PCT or other autoimmune conditions. While PCT antibodies alone do not confirm PCT diagnosis, they can be part of a comprehensive evaluation. High antibody levels may prompt further testing or monitoring of liver function and other symptoms.
Short name
PCT Antibody (Plasma)
Frequently asked questions
What Does a Positive or Abnormal Result Mean?
How Often Should I Get This Test?
Can I Fast Before This Test?
Sources
- 1
- 2Lab Tests OnlineSource
- 3
Click any link to access the full source. PubMed Central (PMC) links provide free full-text access.
This information is for educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment.
This content is for general informational and educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the guidance of a qualified healthcare provider with any questions you have about a medical condition, and never disregard professional medical advice or delay seeking it because of something you read here.
If you think you may have a medical emergency, call your local emergency number or go to the nearest emergency department immediately.
Medically reviewed by WellAlly Editorial Team Last reviewed August 16, 2026. · Read our editorial policy