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Catecholamine Pattern in Cerebrospinal Fluid (24-Hour Collection)

Published: August 9, 2026Updated: August 16, 2026

This test measures levels of certain chemicals called catecholamines—such as norepinephrine and epinephrine—in your cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) over a 24-hour period. These chemicals play a role in your brain’s response to stress, blood pressure regulation, and other bodily functions.

Quick summary

["This test helps assess brain chemistry linked to conditions like headaches, seizures, or neurological disorders."]

Medically reviewed by WellAlly Editorial TeamLast reviewed August 16, 2026Editorial policy

Key facts at a glance

LOINC
79392-7
Short code
CATPAT
Synonyms
Catecholamine pattern CSF-Imp
Category
chemistry
Sample
csf
Container
Sterile CSF collection tubes, polypropylene (polyethylene tubes may adsorb catecholamines). Tube #2 or #3 of the sequential CSF collection is typically preferred to minimize blood contamination.
Units
N/A
Fasting
false
Population
adult
Sex
all
Age range
≥ 0 years
Method
High-Performance Liquid Chromatography with Electrochemical Detection (HPLC-ECD) or Liquid Chromatography-Tandem Mass Spectrometry (LC-MS/MS)
CPT
82542
SNOMED
252278004
Specimen volume
1-2 mL of cerebrospinal fluid
Stability
Immediately freeze at -20°C or below if not analyzed promptly. Stable for 24 hours at 2-8°C; for longer storage, maintain at -70°C or below. Avoid repeated freeze-thaw cycles.
Hemolysis max
200
TAT
72–168 hours
Order
routine

Why This Test Might Be Ordered

Your doctor may recommend this test if you have symptoms such as severe headaches, unexplained seizures, or neurological issues that suggest abnormal brain chemistry. It could also be used to investigate conditions like migraines, brain tumors, or vascular problems affecting the brain.

What to Expect Before the Test

You’ll need to collect CSF over 24 hours, typically through a procedure called lumbar puncture (spinal tap). A healthcare provider will guide you on how to properly collect the sample in a sterile container. Follow all instructions carefully to ensure accurate results.

What Happens During the Test

The test involves collecting CSF samples at regular intervals (e.g., every few hours) over 24 hours. The samples are then analyzed in a lab to measure the concentration of catecholamines. This process helps create a pattern of how these chemicals fluctuate in your brain fluid.

What the Results Mean

Abnormal patterns of catecholamines in CSF may indicate underlying neurological conditions, such as certain types of headaches, brain tumors, or vascular disorders. Your doctor will interpret the results in the context of your symptoms and medical history.

Reference range

Interpretation provided in narrative form. CSF catecholamine metabolite patterns are interpreted in context of clinical presentation. Normal CSF levels of homovanillic acid (HVA) and 3-methoxy-4-hydroxyphenylglycol (MHPG) vary by age; pediatric values are typically higher than adult values. Reference ranges are laboratory-specific.N/A

Specimen: csf

No special patient preparation required. Inform patient about lumbar puncture procedure, including risks of headache, bleeding, and infection. Patient should remain in recumbent position during and after the procedure as clinically indicated.

Clinical interpretation

How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.

◆Associated findings1

Short name

CSF Catecholamines (24h)

Frequently asked questions

How is this test different from measuring catecholamines in blood?
This test specifically measures catecholamines in cerebrospinal fluid, which is the fluid surrounding your brain and spinal cord. Blood tests measure catecholamines in your bloodstream, so results can differ due to how these chemicals move between blood and brain fluid.
What conditions might lead to abnormal catecholamine patterns in CSF?
Conditions such as certain types of headaches (e.g., migraines), brain tumors, or vascular abnormalities (like arteriovenous malformations) may cause abnormal catecholamine levels in CSF. Your doctor will consider your symptoms and medical history to determine if this test is appropriate.
Do I need to avoid certain foods or medications before this test?
Yes, follow your doctor’s instructions carefully. Avoid caffeine, certain medications, or foods that may influence catecholamine levels before the test. Some patients may also need to avoid certain activities or positions to ensure accurate results.
  1. 1
    MedlinePlus — Laboratory TestsSource
  2. 2
    Lab Tests OnlineSource
  3. 3
    Mayo Clinic — Tests & ProceduresSource

Click any link to access the full source. PubMed Central (PMC) links provide free full-text access.

This information is for educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment.

Medical Disclaimer

This content is for general informational and educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the guidance of a qualified healthcare provider with any questions you have about a medical condition, and never disregard professional medical advice or delay seeking it because of something you read here.

If you think you may have a medical emergency, call your local emergency number or go to the nearest emergency department immediately.

Medically reviewed by WellAlly Editorial Team Last reviewed August 16, 2026. · Read our editorial policy