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Catecholamines, plasma and urine

Also known as: Dopamine; adrenaline (epinephrine); noradrenaline (norepinephrine); free urine catecholamines
Related tests: Plasma free metanephrine, urine metanephrines, hydroxymethylmandelic acid (HMMA)

At a Glance

Why Get Tested?

To help diagnose or rule out a phaeochromocytoma or other neuroendocrine tumour

When to Get Tested?

If you have symptoms of persistent or episodic high blood pressure such as severe headaches, rapid heart rate, and sweating

Sample Required?

A 24-hour urine sample or possibly a blood sample taken from a vein in the arm

Note: These tests are affected by certain drugs, foods, and stresses. Inform your doctor of any medicines you are taking and follow any instructions you are given for things to do or foods to avoid before sample collection.

Test Preparation Needed?

You may be asked to lie down and rest quietly for 15 – 30 minutes prior to sample collection, and your blood may be collected while you are lying down. In other circumstances, you may just be seated upright with little or no rest time before the sample collection.