Skip to content

Plasma Catecholamine Metabolite Screening (Vanillylmandelic Acid and Metanephrines)

Published: August 9, 2026Updated: August 14, 2026

This test measures levels of certain chemicals in your blood that break down from hormones called catecholamines, which help regulate your heart rate, blood pressure, and stress responses. It’s often used to check for conditions affecting these hormones.

Quick summary

["This test helps diagnose or monitor conditions linked to abnormal hormone production, such as pheochromocytoma or other adrenal or nerve-related disorders."]

Medically reviewed by WellAlly Editorial TeamLast reviewed August 14, 2026Editorial policy

Key facts at a glance

LOINC
12524-5
Short code
CAT4PC
Synonyms
Catechols sp4 p chal Plas-mCnc
Category
chemistry
Sample
plasma
Container
Pre-chilled lavender-top (EDTA) or green-top (heparinized) plasma collection tube; sodium heparin tubes are preferred for catecholamine analysis
Units
N/A
Ref low
0
Ref high
50
Fasting
false
Population
adult
Sex
all
Age range
≥ 18 years
Method
High-Performance Liquid Chromatography with Electrochemical Detection (HPLC-ECD) or Liquid Chromatography-Tandem Mass Spectrometry (LC-MS/MS)
CPT
82384
SNOMED
412928005
Specimen volume
5-10 mL of whole blood collected in pre-chilled tube; minimum 2 mL plasma required for analysis
Stability
Plasma separated immediately after collection and frozen at -20°C or colder. Catecholamines are stable in frozen plasma for up to 3 months at -20°C or 6 months at -80°C. Specimens should be transported on ice and processed within 30 minutes of collection to prevent degradation.
Hemolysis max
50
Lipemia max
100
Icterus max
25
TAT
48–168 hours
Order
routine

Why This Test Is Done

Your doctor may recommend this test if you have symptoms like severe headaches, rapid heartbeat, high blood pressure, or unexplained sweating. It’s also used before surgery involving the adrenal glands or if you’ve had a family history of certain hormone-related cancers.

What to Expect Before the Test

No special preparation is needed, but you may be asked to avoid certain medications that could affect results. Bring a list of all medications you take to your doctor’s office.

How the Test Works

A blood sample is drawn from a vein in your arm. The sample is then analyzed to detect specific breakdown products of catecholamines, which are chemicals produced by your adrenal glands and nerves.

Possible Results and Interpretation

High levels of these metabolites may suggest overactivity of the adrenal glands or nerve cells, while low levels might indicate an underactive system. Your doctor will discuss the results in relation to your symptoms and medical history.

Reference range

Reference ranges vary by specimen type, patient position, and laboratory methodology. Supine plasma catecholamine levels are typically lower than upright levels. For the 4th post-challenge specimen, results should be interpreted in the context of the specific provocation protocol used (e.g., clonidine suppression test, glucagon stimulation test, or tyramine challenge). Typical adult supine reference ranges: Epinephrine <50 pg/mL, Norepinephrine <500 pg/mL, Dopamine <30 pg/mL. Consult laboratory-specific reference ranges for post-challenge interpretation.N/A

Specimen: plasma

Patients should avoid caffeine, alcohol, nicotine, and vigorous exercise for at least 24 hours prior to specimen collection. Certain medications including MAO inhibitors, tricyclic antidepressants, alpha-blockers, beta-blockers, levodopa, and sympathomimetic drugs should be discontinued 1-2 weeks prior to testing if clinically feasible (consult physician). The patient should fast for at least 8 hours prior to testing. An indwelling intravenous cannula should be placed at least 20-30 minutes before blood draw to minimize stress-related elevations.

Clinical interpretation

How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.

Clinical Significance

Short name

Catecholamine Metabolites

Frequently asked questions

What could cause abnormal results?
Abnormally high results may be linked to conditions like pheochromocytoma (a tumor affecting hormone production), certain nerve disorders, or excessive stress. Abnormally low results could indicate adrenal insufficiency or other hormonal imbalances.
How often should this test be repeated?
Your doctor will determine how often you need retesting based on your symptoms, treatment plan, and previous results. Follow-up tests may be scheduled if your condition changes or if treatment is being adjusted.
Can lifestyle changes affect this test?
Yes, certain medications (like beta-blockers) or dietary supplements can influence catecholamine levels. Always inform your healthcare provider about all medications or supplements you take before testing.
  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 14, 2026. · Read our editorial policy