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Serum or Plasma Mass Concentration of Metanephrine

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

This test measures the amount of metanephrine, a chemical produced when your body breaks down certain hormones, including adrenaline (epinephrine). It helps assess conditions like pheochromocytoma or other adrenal gland tumors.

Quick summary

["Metanephrine levels can indicate rare but serious hormone-related disorders."]

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

Key facts at a glance

LOINC
24660-3
Short code
MRA TA
Synonyms
MRA TA
Category
chemistry
Sample
serum
Container
Red-top tube (SST)
Units
N/A
Fasting
false
Population
adult
Sex
all
Age range
18–65 years
Method
mr-angio
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 This Test Might Be Ordered

Your doctor may recommend this test if you have symptoms like high blood pressure, headaches, sweating, rapid heartbeat, or unexplained weight changes. It’s often used alongside other tests to diagnose conditions affecting your adrenal glands or nervous system.

What to Expect Before the Test

No special preparation is usually needed, but your doctor might ask you to avoid certain medications or foods that could affect results. If you’re taking blood pressure medications, let your lab know beforehand.

How the Test Is Performed

A blood sample is drawn from a vein in your arm. The sample is sent to a lab where it’s analyzed to measure metanephrine levels using a specialized technique, often high-performance liquid chromatography (HPLC).

What the Results Mean

High levels of metanephrine may suggest an adrenal tumor or other conditions causing excessive hormone production. Low levels might indicate normal function or other underlying issues, but results should always be interpreted by your healthcare provider.

Clinical interpretation

How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.

◆Associated findings1

Short name

Metanephrine Level

Frequently asked questions

How long does it take to get my results?
Results are typically available within 1–3 business days, depending on your lab’s processing time. Your doctor will contact you once they’re ready to review them with you.
Can I eat or drink before this test?
No special diet is required, but avoid caffeine or large meals 24 hours before testing if instructed by your doctor. If you’re on blood pressure medications, check with your provider to confirm if you should stop temporarily.
What if my results are abnormal?
If your results are high, your doctor may order additional tests (like urine tests for vanillylmandelic acid) or imaging to investigate further. If low, they may check for other conditions affecting hormone balance. Never interpret results alone—always discuss them with your healthcare team.
  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