Dopamine metabolite plasma concentration (3-methoxytyramine, 3-MT)
This test measures the level of 3-methoxytyramine, a dopamine metabolite found in your blood plasma. It helps assess dopamine activity in your body.
["This test may be used to evaluate dopamine-related conditions, such as certain neurological or metabolic disorders."]
Key facts at a glance
- LOINC
- 35131-2
- Short code
- L-Dopa decase Plas-cCnc
- Synonyms
- L-Dopa decase Plas-cCnc
- Category
- chemistry
- Sample
- plasma
- Container
- Lavender-top (EDTA) or Green-top (Heparin)
- Units
- N/A
- Ref low
- 0
- Ref high
- 2
- Fasting
- false
- Population
- adult
- Sex
- all
- Age range
- 18–65 years
- Specimen volume
- 5 mL
- Stability
- Room temperature: 4h, Refrigerated: 24h, Frozen: 7d
- Hemolysis max
- 500
- Lipemia max
- 1000
- Icterus max
- 500
- TAT
- 4–24 hours
- Order
- routine
Why Might This Test Be Ordered?
Your healthcare provider may recommend this test if you have symptoms or conditions linked to dopamine metabolism, such as Parkinson’s disease, certain neurological disorders, or suspected metabolic imbalances. It could also be part of a broader evaluation for unexplained neurological symptoms or genetic testing.
What Does This Test Measure?
The test measures the concentration of 3-methoxytyramine (3-MT), a breakdown product of dopamine. Dopamine is a chemical messenger in your brain and body that helps regulate movement, mood, and other functions. Elevated or low levels of 3-MT may indicate changes in dopamine production or processing.
Sample Collection and Preparation
A blood sample is drawn from a vein in your arm. The blood is then processed to separate plasma, which is sent to the lab for analysis. Plasma is typically used because it contains stable levels of dopamine metabolites.
What to Expect Before the Test
No special preparation is usually required, but you may be asked to avoid certain medications or foods that could interfere with results. Always inform your healthcare provider about all medications, supplements, or recent dietary changes.
Reference range
NCBI: SCC <2.0 ng/mLN/A
No special preparation usually required. Stay well hydrated. Inform your healthcare provider of all medications and supplements you are taking.
Clinical interpretation
How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.
Changes in 3-methoxytyramine levels can provide clues about dopamine function. For example, elevated levels might suggest overactivity in dopamine pathways, while lower levels could indicate reduced dopamine production or breakdown. This test is particularly useful in diagnosing or monitoring conditions like Parkinson’s disease, dopamine-related neurological disorders, or metabolic disorders affecting neurotransmitter systems.
Short name
Plasma 3-MT (3-Methoxytyramine)
Frequently asked questions
What causes abnormal 3-MT levels?
How are 3-MT levels interpreted?
Can lifestyle changes affect 3-MT levels?
Sources
- 1
- 2Lab Tests OnlineSource
- 3
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.
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 17, 2026. · Read our editorial policy