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Phenylethylamine concentration (serum/plasma)

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

This test measures the amount of phenylethylamine, a naturally occurring chemical in your blood. It may be used in specialized clinical evaluations, including metabolic or genetic testing.

Quick summary

["Phenylethylamine levels help assess rare genetic conditions or metabolic disorders."]

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

Key facts at a glance

LOINC
3627-7
Short code
Fenetylline Ur Ql
Synonyms
Fenetylline Ur Ql
Category
chemistry
Sample
urine
Container
Sterile urine container
Units
N/A
Fasting
false
Population
adult
Sex
all
Age range
18–65 years
Specimen volume
10 mL
Stability
Room temperature: 2h, Refrigerated: 24h, Frozen: 7d
Hemolysis max
0
Lipemia max
0
Icterus max
0
TAT
4–24 hours
Order
routine

What Is Phenylethylamine?

Phenylethylamine is a small molecule produced in the body and found in trace amounts in blood. It is part of the broader class of compounds called biogenic amines, which also include neurotransmitters like dopamine and norepinephrine. While its exact role in health is still being studied, elevated or unusual levels may be linked to specific genetic or metabolic conditions.

Why Might You Need This Test?

This test could be ordered if you have symptoms or a family history suggestive of conditions like phenylketonuria (PKU) variants, certain amino acid disorders, or other metabolic abnormalities. Your healthcare provider may also use it in research or specialized diagnostic contexts.

How Is the Test Performed?

A blood sample is taken from a vein in your arm. The blood is then processed to separate the serum or plasma, which is analyzed using a specialized laboratory technique to measure phenylethylamine concentration.

What Do Results Mean?

Results are reported as a concentration value (e.g., in micromoles per liter). Interpretation depends on clinical context, including your medical history, symptoms, and any known genetic conditions. Elevated or low levels may require further evaluation by a specialist.

Clinical interpretation

How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.

Clinical Significance

Short name

Phenylethylamine Level

Frequently asked questions

How often is this test performed in routine care?
This test is not typically part of standard, routine medical testing. It is usually reserved for specific cases, such as when investigating rare genetic disorders, metabolic screening, or research studies. Your healthcare provider will discuss its necessity based on your individual health needs.
What are the possible causes of abnormal results?
Abnormal phenylethylamine levels may be associated with inherited metabolic disorders, certain enzyme deficiencies, or other rare genetic conditions. Elevated levels could also be influenced by medications or dietary factors, though these are less common in this specific test.
Can lifestyle changes affect this test?
While phenylethylamine is naturally produced in the body, lifestyle factors like diet or exercise may indirectly influence related metabolic pathways. However, for this specific test, lifestyle changes are unlikely to directly alter results unless they impact underlying conditions being evaluated.
  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