HomeLab TestsCatecholamine Tests
Back to Lab Tests
Catecholamine Tests
Reviewed by Medicinsk Expert•Last updated: 2026-10-22•Lab Tests

Catecholamine Tests

Catecholamine tests measure hormones like dopamine, norepinephrine, and epinephrine to help diagnose rare tumors of the adrenal glands or nerve tissue.

What are catecholamine tests?

Catecholamines are hormones produced by the adrenal glands in response to physical or emotional stress—the "fight or flight" response. The main types are dopamine, norepinephrine, and epinephrine (also known as adrenaline). These hormones increase heart rate, blood pressure, and alertness. While levels typically return to normal after stress, persistently high levels can indicate certain rare tumors.

What are they used for?

These tests are primarily used to diagnose or rule out:

  • Pheochromocytoma: A usually benign tumor of the adrenal glands.
  • Neuroblastoma: A cancerous tumor developing from nerve tissue, primarily in infants and children.
  • Paraganglioma: A tumor near the adrenal glands that can cause high blood pressure.

Why do I need a catecholamine test?

You or your child may need this test if experiencing symptoms of these tumors. In adults, symptoms include persistent high blood pressure, severe headaches, sweating, rapid heartbeat, anxiety, and tingling in the limbs. In children, symptoms may include bone pain, abdominal lumps, unexplained weight loss, or uncontrolled eye movements.

What happens during a catecholamine test?

Testing can be performed on urine or blood. Urine testing is common and typically involves a 24-hour collection process, where you store all urine produced over a full day in a refrigerated container. Blood testing involves a standard blood draw from a vein in your arm.

Preparation and Risks

You may be asked to avoid certain foods (caffeine, chocolate, bananas, citrus, vanilla), alcohol, tobacco, and vigorous exercise for two to three days before the test. Inform your provider of all medications you are taking. If having a blood test, you may need to fast. There are no risks to urine testing; blood testing carries minimal risk of slight pain or bruising.

What do the results mean?

High levels of catecholamines may indicate the presence of a tumor, or that treatment for an existing tumor is not working. However, high levels can also be caused by stress, exercise, or diet. Your provider will interpret these results alongside your medical history and other diagnostic tools, such as CT scans or MRIs, to confirm a diagnosis.

Frequently Asked Questions

Urine tests usually return results in 3–5 business days, while plasma tests can be available in 1–2 days. Normal ranges differ by lab, but generally dopamine < 300 ng/mL, norepinephrine < 200 ng/mL, and epinephrine < 100 ng/mL for 24‑hour urine. Elevated levels—especially a 3‑fold rise over the upper limit—suggest a catecholamine‑secreting tumor. Your clinician will interpret the numbers in the context of your symptoms and imaging.
Before the test, avoid foods that can raise catecholamine levels such as caffeine, chocolate, bananas, citrus fruits, and vanilla. Refrain from alcohol, tobacco, and vigorous exercise for 2–3 days prior. If you are on medications that affect catecholamine metabolism (e.g., beta‑blockers, tricyclic antidepressants, MAO inhibitors, or certain antihypertensives), discuss with your provider whether to pause or adjust them 8–12 hours before the test. Keep a list of all supplements and over‑the‑counter drugs to share with your clinician.
Persistent or paroxysmal high blood pressure that is difficult to control, severe headaches, profuse sweating, rapid heartbeat, anxiety, and tingling or burning sensations in the limbs are classic red flags. In children, look for unexplained bone pain, abdominal masses, weight loss, or eye movement abnormalities. If any of these occur, ask your provider about a catecholamine test.
High levels prompt confirmatory imaging such as an MRI or CT scan of the adrenal glands and possibly a functional scan (MIBG or PET). If a tumor is found, referral to an endocrine surgeon is typical. Treatment may involve pre‑operative medication to control blood pressure (alpha‑blockers, sometimes beta‑blockers), followed by surgical removal. Post‑operative monitoring of catecholamine levels ensures the tumor was fully excised.
Source: MedlinePlus, National Library of Medicine

MedlinePlus brings together authoritative health information from the National Library of Medicine (NLM), the National Institutes of Health (NIH), and other government agencies and health-related organizations.

kontakt@hittavard.se

Ⓒ 2024. Alla rättigheter förbehålls av juxt ab

Sök
Om ossVillkor och policyVanliga frågorKontakta oss