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Metanephrines and Creatinine, Urine

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

Measures metanephrines and creatinine in urine to help evaluate excess catecholamine production, especially when hypertension is present.

Quick summary

["This urine test can help identify conditions that cause excess catecholamines, but results must be interpreted with symptoms and other tests."]

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

Key facts at a glance

LOINC
108470-6
Short code
MetanephS/Creat Msmt Ur
Synonyms
MetanephS/Creat Msmt Ur
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 test measures metanephrines, breakdown products of stress hormones called catecholamines, along with creatinine in urine. Creatinine may be used to account for urine concentration or the amount collected.

Why might I need this test?

It may be ordered to evaluate unexplained or severe high blood pressure, episodes of headache, sweating, rapid heartbeat, or other symptoms that can occur with excess catecholamine production.

How is the test performed?

A urine sample is collected as directed by the laboratory. The laboratory measures metanephrines and creatinine and may report the metanephrine result relative to creatinine to help reduce the effect of differences in urine concentration.

How do I prepare for the test?

Follow the laboratory's collection instructions carefully. If a 24-hour collection is requested, collect all urine for the full period. Ask your clinician about caffeine, nicotine, exercise, and medicines, as these can affect results; do not stop prescribed medicines without guidance.

Clinical interpretation

How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.

Higher metanephrine levels may occur with catecholamine-producing tumors, such as pheochromocytoma or paraganglioma. Mild elevations can also result from stress, illness, exercise, caffeine, nicotine, or certain medicines, so an abnormal result usually requires repeat testing and clinical review.

Short name

Urine metanephrines and creatinine

Frequently asked questions

Does this test diagnose a tumor by itself?
No. Abnormal results suggest that further evaluation may be needed, but diagnosis depends on symptoms, repeat testing, and other clinical findings.
Why is creatinine included with urine metanephrines?
Creatinine helps account for differences in urine concentration or collection amount. This allows the laboratory to interpret the metanephrine result more reliably.
Can medicines or activities affect the result?
Yes. Caffeine, nicotine, strenuous exercise, stress, and some medicines may increase metanephrine levels. Tell your clinician about these factors and follow any instructions 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 16, 2026. · Read our editorial policy