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: Urine Delta-Aminolevulinic Acid 24-Hour Excretion Rate

Published: August 9, 2026Updated: August 17, 2026

: This test measures the rate at which delta-aminolevulinic acid (ALA) is excreted in urine collected over a full 24-hour period. It is used to help evaluate certain disorders of heme production, such as porphyrias.

Quick summary

[": A 24-hour urine ALA excretion rate helps assess whether the body is producing and clearing ALA normally, which can point to a porphyrin-related disorder."]

Medically reviewed by WellAlly Editorial TeamLast reviewed August 17, 2026Editorial policy

Key facts at a glance

LOINC
2197-2
Short code
u DHEA 24h Ur-mRate
Synonyms
u DHEA 24h Ur-mRate
Category
chemistry
Sample
urine
Container
Sterile urine container
Units
N/A
Ref low
135
Ref high
980
Fasting
false
Population
adult
Sex
all
Age range
18–65 years
CPT
82626
Specimen volume
10 mL
Stability
Room temperature: 2h, Refrigerated: 24h, Frozen: 7d
Hemolysis max
0
Lipemia max
0
Icterus max
0
TAT
4–24 hours
Order
routine

: What Is Delta-Aminolevulinic Acid?

: Delta-aminolevulinic acid (ALA) is a natural building block made in the body during the production of heme, the molecule that carries oxygen in red blood cells. Normally ALA is quickly converted to the next step in that pathway, so only small amounts appear in urine. When an enzyme in the pathway does not work properly, ALA can build up and spill into the urine.

: Why a 24-Hour Collection?

: ALA levels can rise and fall during the day and with meals or activity. Collecting all urine over a full 24 hours gives a more reliable average of how much ALA the body is excreting than a single spot sample. Your care team will give you instructions on how to collect and store the sample.

: What the Result May Suggest

: An elevated excretion rate can occur in some porphyrias and other conditions that disturb heme production. Results are interpreted together with your symptoms, other urine and blood tests, and sometimes genetic testing. A single abnormal value does not by itself confirm a diagnosis.

: How to Prepare

: Follow your provider's instructions about collecting the sample, including timing and storage. Tell your care team about all medicines, supplements, and recent illness, because some factors can affect ALA levels. Do not change any medication on your own before testing.

Reference range

NCBI: DHEA-S Male 135-980 µg/dL; Female 30-260 µg/dLN/A

Specimen: urine

No special preparation usually required. Stay well hydrated. Inform your healthcare provider of all medications and supplements you are taking.

Clinical interpretation

How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.

: Urine ALA excretion rate is most useful as part of a porphyria workup, especially when symptoms such as abdominal pain, nerve symptoms, or skin problems raise concern. It is generally interpreted alongside other tests rather than on its own, and results should be reviewed by a clinician familiar with these disorders.

Short name

: 24-hr Urine ALA Excretion Rate

Frequently asked questions

: Does an abnormal result mean I have a porphyria?
: Not necessarily. Many factors can affect ALA excretion, and diagnosis usually requires a pattern of findings across several tests and your clinical history. Your provider will explain what your result means in context.
: Do I need to fast before this test?
: Fasting is not typically the key preparation for a 24-hour urine ALA test; correct sample collection matters most. Follow the specific instructions your laboratory or care team gives you.
: Can medicines affect the result?
: Some medicines, supplements, and health conditions can influence ALA levels, so it is important to tell your provider everything you are taking. Do not stop or change any medication unless your provider advises it.
  1. 1
    MedlinePlus — Laboratory TestsSource
  2. 2
    Lab Tests OnlineSource
  3. 3
    Mayo Clinic — Tests & ProceduresSource

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.

Medical Disclaimer

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 17, 2026. · Read our editorial policy