Thin-layer chromatography of free porphyrins for diagnosis of porphyria
Henderson, M.J.
Clinical Chemistry 35(6): 1043-1044
1989
ISSN/ISBN: 0009-9147 PMID: 2731344 Document Number: 332048
In this simple thin-layer chromatographic (TLC) technique for evaluating porphyrin excretion, porphyrins are extracted from urine or feces, then separated on silica-gel TLC plates. The distinct porphyrin bands are observed by viewing the plates under long-wave fluorescent light. Positive screening tests can readily be confirmed or rejected, and a more comprehensive investigation confidently undertaken.