Catecholamines ( Adrenaline, Noradrenaline and Dopamine)

Clinical Chemistry

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Description

The catecholamines ( adrenaline, noradrenaline and dopamine ) are a group of neurotransmitters derived from tyrosine which are produced in the adrenal medulla. They play crucial roles in the autonomic regulation of many homeostatic functions including cardiac rate, glucose metabolism, vascular tone and intestinal tone. Although responsible for much less than one percent of all cases of arterial hypertension, phaeochromocytomas are routinely considered in the diagnosis of secondary surgical curable hypertension. Urine catecholamine concentrations may be elevated in patients with a phaeochromocytoma, leading to hypertension, palpitations, cardiac arrhythmias, headache, sweating, pallor, anxiety, tremor and nausea. They may also be elevated in patients with neuroblastoma.

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Indications

Investigation of suspected phaeochromocytoma ( or neuroblastoma in childhood ). Plasma catecholamines may be performed as part of a clonidine suppression test.

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Sample Type

Adults: 24 hour urine collected into 2L bottle with 30 mL 2M sulphuric acid.
Paediatric: random urine.

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Reference Range

Reference ranges are provided on the report. Alternatively, please contact the laboratory for current ranges.

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Turnaround Time

2 weeks

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Testing Frequency

Weekly

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External Notes

**Please note that for adults, urine metanephrines are now the front-line investigation for phaeochromocytoma and paraganglioma.** Specimen requirements for children: Random urine acidified to pH <3.0 as soon as possible after collection. Adults: pH must be <2 on receipt and volume recorded. Avoid collecting after a high ( meat ) protein meal as this may affect creatinine excretion. Assay suffers interference from certain drugs especially Labetalol, Methyl-dopa and Paracetamol.

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Please note: the above information is subject to change and we endeavour to keep this website up to date wherever necessary.