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2 Parameters Included

The 24-Hour Urine for Metanephrines test measures the levels of metanephrines, which are breakdown products of catecholamines (adrenaline and noradrenaline) in the urine. Catecholamines are hormones produced by the adrenal glands in response to stress, and metanephrines are the metabolites formed when these hormones are broken down in the body.

Key Points about the Test:

• Metanephrines: The two primary forms of metanephrines measured in this test are normetanephrine and metanephrine. These are the metabolites of norepinephrine (noradrenaline) and epinephrine (adrenaline), respectively.

• 24-Hour Urine Collection: The test involves collecting all urine over a 24-hour period to measure the total amount of metanephrines excreted. This approach helps provide a more accurate assessment, accounting for fluctuations in hormone levels throughout the day.

Purpose of the 24-Hour Urine for Metanephrines Test:

• Diagnose Pheochromocytoma and Paraganglioma: The most common reason for this test is to screen for pheochromocytoma or paraganglioma—rare tumors of the adrenal glands or sympathetic nervous system that cause an overproduction of catecholamines, leading to symptoms like high blood pressure, headaches, sweating, and heart palpitations. Elevated levels of metanephrines in the urine suggest the presence of these tumors.

• Assess catecholamine-related disorders: This test is also used to assess conditions related to excess catecholamine production, including neuroblastoma (a type of cancer that can affect children) or certain stress conditions that might cause temporary increases in catecholamines.