The laboratory provides a comprehensive analytical and clinical advisory service and has a research interest in all the porphyrias. The analytical service comprises both biochemical porphyrin analysis and genetic investigation of all the genes responsible for porphyrias. CPA accreditation has been achieved with the Department of Clinical Biochemistry and there is a full programme of quality assurance. Recent introductions to the assay repertoire include mutational analysis of the coproporphyrinogen oxidase gene. Enquiries and comments on any aspect of the service are welcome and a booklet describing the services in detail is available on request or can be downloaded from the Cardiff Porphyria website.
The clinical service includes both an outpatient service and joint care of inpatients in collaboration with Dr A Freedman, General Physician, UHW where necessary.
The group also collaborates with the *Welsh Medicines Information Centre (WMIC) to maintain up to date information on drug safety in the acute porphyrias (safe drug list available on website).

Biochemistry Laboratory 029 2074 3565
Fax: 029 2074 8383
DNA Laboratory Tel 029 2074 2811