Aminolevulinic acid (ALA) 24-hour urine test
Quick answer: This test measures aminolevulinic acid, a building block of haem, in a 24-hour urine collection. Doctors order it to look for certain porphyrias or lead poisoning.
- Sample24-hour urine
- Takes24 hours of collection at home
- Before the testCollect all your urine for 24 hours as instructed; the container may need to be protected from light.
How the test is done
- 1You get a dark or foil-wrapped container from the lab
- 2You start after flushing the first morning urine and note the time
- 3You collect all urine for 24 hours, keeping the container cool and away from light
- 4You return the container with the start and finish times
What your results can mean
Reading your report
Normal ranges differ between labs and by age and sex, so discuss your result with your doctor.
If the result is outside the usual range
A high level can be seen with some types of porphyria, especially during an attack, and with lead poisoning. A normal result between attacks does not always rule out porphyria.
Who usually has this test
People with unexplained severe tummy pain, nerve symptoms or dark urine, and people with possible lead exposure.
Risks and aftercare
There are no physical risks from collecting urine.
Names and options
Also called: ALA urine, delta-aminolevulinic acid
Listed by the hospital as
- AMINO LEVULINIC ACID (ALA) 24 HRS URINE
Questions about this test
Why must the ALA urine container be kept away from light?
Light can break down ALA and related substances, which may give a falsely low result. Keep the container covered or wrapped.
Is it better to test during a porphyria attack?
Yes. ALA is often highest during an attack, so testing while you have symptoms gives the most useful result. Your doctor will advise on timing.
How is ALA linked to lead poisoning?
Lead blocks an enzyme the body uses to make haem, so ALA builds up and spills into urine. A blood lead test is usually also done.
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Tamara Hospital & IVF Centre, Rajajinagar
34/3, 10th Cross Road, opp. Vardhaka Sardar Patel School, 1st N Block, 2nd Stage, Rajajinagar, Bengaluru 560010
The hospital is open 24 hours. Call before you come to check the timing for your scan or sample collection.
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This page explains each test in general terms so you know what to expect. It is not medical advice: your doctor decides which tests you need and what your results mean. Reference ranges differ between laboratories. Updated 4 November 2026.