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Acid mucopolysaccharides

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Acid mucopolysaccharides

Definition:

Acid mucopolysaccharides is a test that measures the amount of mucopolysaccharides excreted in the urine over a 24-hour period.

Alternative Names:
AMP; Dermatan sulfate - urine; Urine heparan sulfate; Urine dermatan sulfate; Heparan sulfate - urine

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How the test is performed:

A 24-hour urine sample is needed.

The health care provider will instruct you, if necessary, to discontinue drugs that may interfere with the test.

• On day 1, urinate into the toilet when you get up in the morning.
• Afterwards, collect all urine in a special container for the next 24 hours.
• On day 2, urinate into the container when you get up in the morning.
• Cap the container. Keep it in the refrigerator or a cool place during the collection period. Label the container with your name, the date, the time of completion, and return it as instructed. Deliver it to the laboratory or your health care provider as soon as possible upon completion.

How to prepare for the test:

No special preparation is needed. Drink a normal volume of fluids, and consume a normal diet.

How the test will feel:

The test involves only normal urination, and there is no discomfort.

Why the test is performed:

This test is performed to detect a rare disorder of excess acid mucopolysaccharides accumulation (especially dermatan sulfate and heparan sulfate) in the tissues. The severe form of this disorder can lead to Hurler syndrome. Typically this test is only ordered for infants where there is a family history of mucopolysaccharidosis.

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