Delta-aminolevulinic acid ALA

Delta-aminolevulinic acid is the first element in the pathway of of heme synthesis ( delta-aminolevulinic acid (ALA), porphobilinogen (PBG), uroporphyrinogen, coproporphyrinogen, protoporphyrinogen, protoporphyrinogen, heme). Therefore, the assay is used in diagnosis of porphyria. The test is also used to assess exposure to lead (lead inhibits the enzyme that converts acid delta-aminolevulinic acid, increasing its accumulation).

Diagnosis of pheochromocytoma of the adrenal glands, aorta and arteries iliac arteries.