Ornithine Quantitative Plasma Test

This test measures the level of ornithine, an amino acid, in your blood.

The Ornithine Quantitative Plasma test is done for the following reasons:

• To help diagnose and monitor genetic conditions like ornithinuria, gyrate atrophy
• To detect metabolic disorders that affect the urea cycle
• To assess the effectiveness of treatment for metabolic disorders

Ornithine Quantitative Plasma is usually recommended

• If you have symptoms of a metabolic disorder or genetic condition like Urea Cycle disorders, gyrate atrophy in newborns.
• If you have family members with a known metabolic disorder or genetic condition.
• If you have been diagnosed with a metabolic disorder or genetic condition that needs monitoring.

Elevated levels can indicate a variety of issues such as metabolic disorders or genetic conditions like Urea Cycle disorders, gyrate atrophy.

This test involves drawing a small sample of blood from a vein in your arm using a needle and a syringe. You may feel a slight pinch as the needle is inserted, but the procedure is generally quick and painless. 

Before taking the Ornithine Quantitative Plasma test, you should

• Inform your doctor about any medications, supplements, or herbal products you are taking.
• Follow your doctor's instructions regarding fasting before the test.

Other tests that may be ordered alongside the Ornithine Quantitative Plasma test include:

• Amino acid analysis: To evaluate multiple amino acids in the body
• Urea cycle enzyme studies (UCES): To assess how well the urea cycle is functioning
• Ophthalmologic exams: For those suspected of having gyrate atrophy

Ornithine Blood or Ornithine Amino Acid Quantitative

Gyrate atrophy is a genetic disorder that can lead to vision loss. It affects the retina and causes progressive damage to the eye over time. It is caused by mutations in the OAT gene, which is involved in the metabolism of ornithine.

Urea cycle disorders are genetic disorders that occur due to defects in enzymes or transporter molecules involved in the liver's process of removing ammonia from the blood. These inborn errors of metabolism can lead to an accumulation of ammonia in the body, which can be toxic to the brain and other organs.