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Metanephrine, Urine — Screening Test

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

A urine screening test for metanephrine, which can help evaluate whether symptoms may be caused by a catecholamine-producing tumor.

Quick summary

["Elevated urine metanephrines may lead to further evaluation for a catecholamine-producing tumor, but other conditions can also cause high results."]

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

Key facts at a glance

LOINC
13771-1
Short code
MetanephS/Creat Ur
Synonyms
MetanephS/Creat 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 metanephrine, a breakdown product of stress hormones called catecholamines, in urine. It may be used as an initial screening test when symptoms suggest a catecholamine-producing tumor, such as pheochromocytoma or paraganglioma.

Why might I need this test?

Your clinician may order this test if you have episodes of severe headache, sweating, rapid heartbeat, weakness, or unexplained changes in blood pressure. The result helps guide whether additional imaging or other laboratory testing is needed.

How is the test performed?

A urine sample is collected and analyzed in the laboratory. Depending on your clinician's instructions, this may be a single urine collection or urine collected over 24 hours.

How do I prepare for the test?

Follow your clinician's collection instructions carefully. You may be asked to avoid caffeine, alcohol, nicotine, strenuous exercise, and significant stress before collection, because these can affect the result. Do not stop medications without medical advice.

Clinical interpretation

How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.

A higher-than-expected result may suggest a catecholamine-producing tumor, but it does not confirm that one is present. High metanephrine levels can also result from stress, illness, certain medications, or foods, so your clinician will interpret the result alongside your symptoms and other tests.

Short name

Urine Metanephrines

Frequently asked questions

Does an abnormal result mean I have a tumor?
No. An abnormal screening result only indicates that additional evaluation may be needed. Imaging and repeat or confirmatory laboratory testing are often required.
What symptoms may lead to this test?
Common clues include episodic headaches, heavy sweating, rapid heartbeat, weakness, and unexplained high blood pressure. Not everyone with a catecholamine-producing tumor has all of these symptoms.
Can medications or foods affect the result?
Yes. Certain medicines, caffeine, alcohol, nicotine, stress, and illness can influence urine metanephrine levels. Tell your clinician about medications and supplements before the test.
  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