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Metanephrine/Creatinine Ratio, Urine — Total

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

Measures urinary metanephrine relative to urine creatinine to help evaluate for tumors that produce excess catecholamines.

Quick summary

["An elevated urine metanephrine/creatinine ratio may suggest a catecholamine-producing tumor, but test results must be interpreted with other findings."]

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

Key facts at a glance

LOINC
14831-2
Short code
Metaneph/Creat Ur-sRto
Synonyms
Metaneph/Creat Ur-sRto
Category
kidney
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 this test?

This urine test measures metanephrine, a breakdown product of the stress hormones adrenaline and noradrenaline. Urine creatinine may be measured or used as a ratio to account for how concentrated the urine sample is.

Why might I need this test?

The test is commonly used to help evaluate episodes of high blood pressure, rapid heartbeat, sweating, severe headaches, or episodes of anxiety or panic. It is also used when a catecholamine-producing tumor, such as pheochromocytoma or paraganglioma, is suspected.

How is the test performed?

A urine specimen is collected and analyzed in the laboratory. Depending on the test order and laboratory instructions, the sample may be a single collection or urine collected over 24 hours.

How do I prepare for the test?

Follow the laboratory's collection instructions exactly, including any timed collection period. Avoid vigorous exercise, nicotine, and unusually large amounts of caffeine before collection, and tell your clinician about medicines, stimulants, or other substances that could affect the result.

Clinical interpretation

How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.

◆Associated findings1

Short name

Urine metanephrine/creatinine

Frequently asked questions

What does an elevated urine metanephrine/creatinine ratio mean?
It may indicate that the body is producing or releasing more metanephrine than expected. Causes can include a catecholamine-producing tumor, but stress, illness, caffeine, exercise, smoking, and medications can also cause mild elevations.
Is this test the same as a 24-hour urine collection?
Not always. Some laboratories use a single urine sample, while others require all urine collected over 24 hours. Follow the specific collection instructions provided by the laboratory.
Can medicines affect the result?
Yes. Some blood pressure medicines, stimulants, antidepressants, and other drugs can influence metanephrine levels. Do not stop a prescribed medicine on your own; ask your clinician whether any medication adjustments are needed before collection.
  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