Ferric Chloride Test

You need to provide

Urine

This test is for

Male, Female

Test Preparation

Urine sample must preferably be the midstream urine (part of urine that comes after first and before the last stream). Collect the urine sample in a sealed and sterile container provided by our sample collection professional. Make sure that the container doesn't come in contact with your skin. Women are advised not to give the sample during the menstrual period unless prescribed.

Understanding Ferric Chloride Test

What is Ferric Chloride Test?

This test is used for the diagnosis of phenylketonuria. It checks for the presence of phenols and phenylpyruvate in the urine sample which indicates an individual's disability to digest phenylalanine, an essential amino acid for body.

This test is mostly used as a screening test in case of newborns, however older children with symptoms such as delayed development, intellectual difficulties, musty odor in the breath, skin or urine and microcephaly, should get tested.

If left untreated severe conditions such as intellectual disability, seizures, delayed development, behavioral problems and psychiatric disorders can arise.

What is Ferric Chloride Test used for?

The test is performed when symptoms of metabolic disorders appear like rapid or random weight gain or loss, abnormal bowel movements, fatigue and weakness
To evaluate overdose of drugs like aspirin
As screening test for Phenylketonuria