DPD (Diaminopimelate Dehydratase) Activity in Whole Blood
This test measures the activity of an enzyme called DPD, which is involved in the production of hemoglobin—the protein in red blood cells that carries oxygen. Low levels may indicate certain blood disorders.
["DPD enzyme activity helps assess red blood cell health and potential hemoglobin synthesis issues."]
Key facts at a glance
- LOINC
- 104174-8
- Short code
- DPYD gene.c.1679T>G Geno Bld/T
- Synonyms
- DPYD gene.c.1679T>G Geno Bld/T
- Category
- chemistry
- Sample
- whole-blood
- Container
- Lavender-top (EDTA)
- Units
- N/A
- Fasting
- false
- Population
- adult
- Sex
- all
- Age range
- 18–65 years
- Method
- molgen
- Specimen volume
- 3 mL
- Stability
- Room temperature: 4h, Refrigerated: 24h
- Hemolysis max
- 0
- Lipemia max
- 0
- Icterus max
- 0
- TAT
- 4–24 hours
- Order
- routine
What Is DPD Used For?
DPD activity testing is primarily used in the evaluation of conditions affecting red blood cell production or function. It can help diagnose or monitor conditions such as certain types of anemia, particularly those linked to impaired hemoglobin synthesis, like Diamond-Blackfan anemia or myelodysplastic syndromes.
How Is This Test Performed?
A small blood sample is drawn from your arm. The sample is then processed in the lab to measure DPD enzyme activity. This test is typically done on whole blood and may be ordered alongside other blood tests to provide a fuller picture of your health.
Why Might You Need This Test?
Your healthcare provider may recommend this test if you have symptoms like fatigue, weakness, or pale skin, which can be signs of anemia. It may also be used in cases where other blood tests suggest abnormalities in red blood cell production or function.
What Are Possible Results?
Results are not typically provided in absolute numbers but rather as a comparison to expected ranges for healthy individuals. Lower-than-expected DPD activity may suggest issues with red blood cell development, while higher-than-expected levels might indicate other conditions that require further investigation.
Clinical interpretation
How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.
Low DPD activity is strongly associated with certain congenital or inherited blood disorders that impair hemoglobin production. For example, Diamond-Blackfan anemia is characterized by low DPD levels alongside other signs of red blood cell deficiency. Monitoring DPD activity helps guide treatment decisions and assess disease progression in these conditions.
Short name
DPD Activity
Frequently asked questions
What does a low DPD level mean?
How often should I get this test?
Can lifestyle changes affect DPD test results?
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