Ornithine Quantitative Urine 24H Test

This test measures the level of ornithine present in a person's urine over 24 hours.

• To diagnose and monitor metabolic disorders and inborn errors of metabolism
• To evaluate treatment effectiveness for such conditions
• To assess risks of developing health complications due to elevated ornithine levels
• To detect urea cycle disorders

Your doctor may recommend the Ornithine test if you have

• a provisional diagnosis or suspicion of metabolic disorders or inborn errors of metabolism,
• symptoms that suggest such disorders, or
• a family history of metabolic disorders or inborn errors of metabolism.

Elevated levels can indicate a variety of metabolic disorders and associated conditions, including argininosuccinic aciduria, lysinuric protein intolerance, hyperornithinemia-hyperammonemia-homocitrullinemia (HHH) syndrome, and gyrate atrophy of the choroid and retina.

You will be given a large container to collect all urine for 24 hours. The sample will be tested for ornithine levels.

While there are no specific preparations needed, it is advisable to consult your healthcare provider to determine if there are any particular requirements you should be aware of.

• Blood tests to measure urea cycle-related metabolites such as citrulline, arginine, or ornithine
• Genetic tests to confirm a diagnosis of a specific metabolic disorder or inborn error of metabolism

Ornithine Urine Test or Ornithine 24-Hour Urine Test

The HHH Syndrome is a rare metabolic disorder characterised by elevated levels of ornithine, homocitrulline, and ammonia in the blood. It is caused by a deficiency in the enzyme ornithine translocase. Symptoms include seizures, developmental delays, and liver damage.