Metanephrines 24 Hour Urine Test
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Test Code: 004234
Specimen Type: Urine
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Description:
Metanephrines 24 Hour Urine Test
This test measures levels of Metanephrines in a 24 hour urine sample. Metanephrines, which include Metanephrine and Normetanephrine, are the metabolites of epinephrine (adrenaline) and norepinephrine. Epinephrine and Norepinephrine are part of a group of hormones called Catecholamines which are normally produced when a person is under physical or emotional stress. Once the stress has passed the Catecholamines are normally metabolized and removed from the body through the urine in a short period of time. Levels of Catecholamines and their metabolites such as Metanephrines are normally low but they can be elevated by hormone producing tumors known as Pheochromocytomas and Paragangliomas. While these types of tumors are typically benign, the excess hormones they produce can cause hypertension, severe headaches, anxiety, sweating, nausea, rapid heartbeat and tingling in the hands and feet. If left untreated, they can result in kidney damage, heart disease and an increased risk of heart attack or stroke. Testing for Metanephrines is one of the most common ways to screen for the tumors.
This test is typically ordered when a person is experiencing unusual periods of hypertension or other symptoms common of excess Catecholamine production to help determine if a tumor is the cause of their condition. It can also be done after a tumor has been removed to monitor recovery. Urine testing has several potential benefits over blood testing. The stress of having blood drawn may falsely elevate Metanephrine levels. Metanephrine levels often fluctuate throughout the day so a single blood draw may not always yield accurate results. Measuring urine output for Metanephrines can give a better assessment of how much of the hormones a person is producing throughout the day. A Catecholamines test may be done along with a Metanephrines test or as a follow up to abnormal results.
Turnaround for this test is typically 5-8 business days.
Where can I find a Metanephrines, Urine Test near me?
Check our lab finder to locate a collection site in your area.
Note: Result turn around times are an estimate and are not guaranteed. Our reference lab may need additional time due to weather, holidays, confirmation/repeat testing, or equipment maintenance.
Requirements:
No caffeine before or during collection. Avoid tobacco, tea, coffee, for three days prior to specimen collection. It is preferable to be off medications for three days prior to collection. Common antihypertensives (diuretics, ACE inhibitors, calcium channel blockers, alpha and beta blockers) cause minimal or no interference. Medications which are alpha agonists (Aldomet), alpha blockers (Dibenzyline) should be avoided 18-24 hours prior to specimen collection. Monamine oxidase inhibitors should be discontinued at least one week prior to beginning collection.
The person being tested should void at 8 AM and discard the specimen. Then collect all urine including the final specimen voided at the end of the 24-hour collection period (ie, 8 AM the next morning). Refrigerate specimen before returning it to the lab.
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