Catecholamines
| Category | Biochemistry >> Metabolic |
|---|---|
| Test background |
Catecholamines (derived from tyrosine residues) are classed as phenethylamines; of these, adrenaline, noradrenaline and dopamine are the most abundant. They are produced mainly from the adrenal medulla in addition to the post-ganglionic fibres of the sympathetic nervous system, and function as hormones in the vascular system and neurotransmitters in the central/peripheral nervous systems. Their role is one of bringing about physiological changes preparatory to physical activity, eg. increased heart rate/blood pressure and gluconeogenesis. Elevated catecholamine turnover is observed in incidences of phaeochromocytoma and childhood neuroblastoma. |
| Clinical Indications |
Diagnosis of phaeochromocytoma/paraganglioma. Symptoms include: elevated heart rate, resistant arterial hypertension, palpitations, anxiety, diaphoresis, cardiomyopathy and headaches Differential diagnosis of phaeochromocytoma includes: anxiety disorders, carcinoid syndrome, essential hypertension, hyperthyroidism, renovascular hypertension, paroxysmal supraventricular tachycardia and insulinoma |
| Reference range | Reference ranges will be given with the report |
| Sample & container required | 24 hour urine collection acidified |
| Sample volume | 24 hour urine collection |
| Transport storage | Stable at 2-8°C however freezing pending dispatch recommended. Sample can be sent by first class post. |
| Turnaround time | 2 weeks |
| Notes | Random urine samples are accepted where it is difficult to provide 24 hour collections. These must be acidified on receipt in the Laboratory specimen reception. Samples with pH>3.0 are unsuitable for this assay. |