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Catecholamines Fractionated 24-Hour Urine Test

DNA Labs India | ISO 9001:2015 Certified

Catecholamines Fractionated 24-Hour Urine Test

Short Name: Catecholamines 24-Hr Urine Test

Also known as: Catecholamines 24-Hour Urine Test, Fractionated Catecholamines Urine Test, Catecholamine Fractionation Test

Catecholamines Fractionated 24-Hour Urine Test test available at DNA Labs India for ₹6,000. Uses Liquid Chromatography-Tandem Mass Spectrometry (LC-MS/MS) on 24-hour urine samples. Results in Report available within 2 days after sample receipt by the laboratory.. Free home collection in 300+ cities across India.

Diagnostic🏠 Home Collection

🩺 Medically Reviewed By

Overview

To quantify the levels of epinephrine, norepinephrine, and dopamine in urine for the diagnosis of catecholamine-related disorders such as pheochromocytoma, neuroblastoma, and autonomic dysfunction.

Test Code
285
Price
₹6,000
Sample Type
24-hour urine
Result Time
Report available within 2 days after sample receipt by the laboratory.
Fasting Required
No
Method
Liquid Chromatography-Tandem Mass Spectrometry (LC-MS/MS)
Step 1

Sample Collection

Avoid all specified medications, substances, and activities for at least 72 hours before and during urine collection. Consult your doctor before stopping any prescribed medications.

Method: 24-hour urine collection with acid preservation to maintain pH 1-2

Step 2

Laboratory Analysis

Collect urine for 24 hours as per instructions. Use the provided container with HCl preservative to maintain pH between 1-2. Record the total volume accurately.

Step 3

Report Delivery

Store the urine sample refrigerated or frozen. Ship to the laboratory promptly for analysis to ensure sample stability.

Timeline: Report available within 2 days after sample receipt by the laboratory.

Patient Instructions

1
Before the Test:Follow pre-collection instructions: avoid specified substances and medications for 72 hours prior to urine collection.
2
During the Test:Collect urine as per instructions during the 24-hour period, ensuring proper preservation and volume recording.
3
After the Test:Ensure proper storage and prompt shipment of the sample to the laboratory for analysis.

About This Test

Who Should Get This Test

To quantify the levels of epinephrine, norepinephrine, and dopamine in urine for the diagnosis of catecholamine-related disorders such as pheochromocytoma, neuroblastoma, and autonomic dysfunction.

How to Prepare

  • Begin collection in the morning after discarding the first urine sample.
  • Collect all urine for the next 24 hours in the provided container.
  • Add the appropriate volume of 50% HCl to maintain pH between 1-2.
  • Record the total 24-hour urine volume on the test request form and container.
  • Keep the sample refrigerated or frozen until shipment.

Doctor's Notes

Reviewed by — MBBS, MD (General Medicine) · Reg. No. 8052

"This test is essential for diagnosing catecholamine-secreting tumors like pheochromocytoma and neuroblastoma, helping in early intervention and management."

Last medically reviewed: September 7, 2026

Test Parameters & Specifications

Sample Type24-hour urine
Sample Volume50 mL aliquot
ContainerUrine container with 50% HCl preservative
Collection Method24-hour urine collection with acid preservation to maintain pH 1-2

Sample Stability

Room Temperature8 hours
Refrigerator5 days
Frozen30 days
Sample Rejection Criteria:
  • Improper collection or preservation
  • Contaminated sample
  • Inadequate volume
  • pH not maintained between 1-2

Understanding Your Results

Results indicate the levels of catecholamines in urine over 24 hours. Elevated levels may suggest underlying medical conditions, while normal levels generally rule out catecholamine-secreting tumors.
Epinephrine levels above 20 mcg/24 hr may indicate pheochromocytoma or acute stress.
Norepinephrine levels above 100 mcg/24 hr can suggest pheochromocytoma, neuroblastoma, or other tumors.
Dopamine levels above 500 mcg/24 hr may be associated with neuroblastoma or other neuroendocrine disorders.
Results should be correlated with clinical symptoms and additional diagnostic tests for accurate diagnosis.
⚠️ When to Consult a Doctor:

If you experience persistent symptoms like hypertension, palpitations, headaches, sweating, or anxiety, or if test results are abnormal, consult a healthcare provider immediately for further evaluation.

Limitations

  • False positives may occur due to dietary factors or medication use.
  • Test results should be interpreted in conjunction with clinical symptoms and other diagnostic tests.
  • Reference ranges may vary slightly between laboratories.

Risks & Considerations

  • No physical risks from urine collection.
  • Risk of inaccurate results if collection instructions are not followed precisely.
  • Potential for misdiagnosis if interfering factors like medications are not avoided.

Interfering Factors

  • Alpha-one blockers
  • Aminophylline
  • Amphetamines
  • Ampicillin
  • Beta-blockers
  • Ephedrine
  • Imipramine
  • Methyldopa
  • MAO inhibitors
  • Nicotine
  • Phenacetin
  • Phenothiazine
  • Theophylline
  • Vasodilators
  • Aspirin
  • PAS
  • Alpha-2 agonists
  • Bromocriptine
  • Calcium channel blockers (long term use)
  • Clofibrate
  • Propranolol
  • Penicillin
  • Reserpine
  • Thyroxine
  • Alpha-methyldopa
  • Isoproterenol
  • Labetalol
  • Mandelamine
  • Paracetamol
  • Cimetidine
  • Metoclopramide
  • Vigorous exercise
  • Alcoholic beverages
  • Tea/coffee
  • Tobacco

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ComparisonCatecholamines Fractionated 24-Hour Urine Test

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the Catecholamines Fractionated 24-Hour Urine Test?
It is a diagnostic test that measures the levels of epinephrine, norepinephrine, and dopamine in urine collected over 24 hours to help diagnose conditions like pheochromocytoma and neuroblastoma.
Why is this test recommended?
This test is recommended for individuals with symptoms such as hypertension, palpitations, headaches, sweating, or anxiety, to detect catecholamine-secreting tumors or autonomic dysfunction.
How do I collect the urine sample?
Collect all urine for 24 hours in a container with HCl preservative, following specific instructions to maintain pH between 1-2, and record the total volume.
What medications should I avoid before the test?
Avoid medications like beta-blockers, aspirin, MAO inhibitors, and substances like caffeine, nicotine, and alcohol for at least 72 hours before and during collection.
What are the normal values for catecholamines in urine?
Typically, epinephrine is <20 mcg/24 hr, norepinephrine is <100 mcg/24 hr, and dopamine is <500 mcg/24 hr, but ranges may vary by laboratory.
What does an elevated catecholamine level indicate?
Elevated levels may indicate pheochromocytoma, neuroblastoma, or other conditions affecting the adrenal glands or nervous system, requiring further medical evaluation.
Is home collection available for this test?
Yes, DNA Labs India offers free home sample collection in numerous cities across India for your convenience.
How long does it take to get the results?
Results are typically available within 2 days after the sample is received by the laboratory, accessible via online portal, email, or WhatsApp.
What is the cost of the test?
The test costs INR 6000, which includes home collection, laboratory analysis, and report delivery.
Are there any risks associated with the test?
The test itself has no physical risks, but improper collection or failure to avoid interfering substances may lead to inaccurate results.
How should I store the urine sample during collection?
Keep the urine refrigerated or frozen during the 24-hour collection period and until shipment to ensure sample stability.
What should I do if my results are abnormal?
Consult your doctor immediately for further evaluation, which may include additional tests or treatment options.
Worried about the process? Our certified phlebotomists collect thousands of samples every month across India. The process takes under 5 minutes and is virtually painless. Questions? Message us on WhatsApp — we're here 7 days a week.

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