CATECHOLAMINES - (U)

Test Code: None

Test Indications: For the assessment of pheochromocytoma and paraganglioma, refer to fractionated metanephrines in urine as the first line test FRACTIONATED METANEPHRINES. 
 
Catecholamine should not be used as the first-line test for pheochromocytoma or paraganglioma. The recommended initial test for pheochromocytoma or paraganglioma include the determination of urinary fractionated metanephrines, but not of catecholamines themselves. Unlike catecholamines, which are only secreted episodically and have relatively short half-life, metanephrines as their metabolic intermediates have relatively longer half-lives. Furthermore, metanephrine secretion is relatively stable compared to catecholamines and it is uninfluenced by sympathoadrenal excitation. Thus, measurement of urinary fractionated metanephrines provides a highly sensitive assay for pheochromocytoma or paraganglioma detection.
 
For the assessment of pheochromocytoma and paraganglioma, refer to fractionated metanephrines in urine as the first line test FRACTIONATED METANEPHRINES
 
Urinary Catecholamine can be used as the second line of testing to evaluate clinical symptoms of excess catecholamine secretion after testing urinary metanephrines and for cases with high clinical suspicions.
 
Must be approved by a Clinical Biochemist prior to sendout.
 
Click here for the Approval For Test Referral Biochemistry (F260-11-02)

_SH Approval for Test Referral Biochemistry (F260-11-02)

If you have any questions, please communicate with the Metabolic Lab (HSC): 204-787-4530