Catecholamines (Urine)
This test measures catecholamine hormones excreted in urine over a set period. It helps assess adrenal gland activity and hormone overproduction.
Turnaround time
6 days
Biomarkers count
1
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Details about Catecholamines (Urine)
What is the Catecholamines (Urine) Test?
The Catecholamines (Urine) test measures levels of adrenaline (epinephrine), noradrenaline (norepinephrine) and dopamine excreted in urine. These hormones are produced by the adrenal glands and play a key role in the body’s response to stress, regulating heart rate, blood pressure and metabolism.
Urine testing, often collected over 24 hours, provides an integrated assessment of catecholamine production over time rather than a single moment. This makes it particularly useful when investigating intermittent hormone release.
The test is commonly used in the assessment of adrenal tumours and disorders involving excessive catecholamine secretion.
Why do I need a test for Catecholamines (Urine)?
You may need this test if you have symptoms suggestive of excess adrenal hormone production. Elevated catecholamines can cause significant cardiovascular and neurological symptoms and may indicate rare but serious conditions such as pheochromocytoma or paraganglioma.
Testing helps confirm or exclude hormone overproduction and guides further imaging or specialist referral.
Symptoms and scenarios where testing is recommended:
- Persistent or episodic high blood pressure
- Severe headaches
- Palpitations or rapid heartbeat
- Excessive sweating
- Anxiety or panic-like episodes
- Flushing or tremors
- Suspected adrenal tumours
- Investigation of unexplained cardiovascular symptoms
Benefits of the Catecholamines (Urine) Test
- Assesses adrenal hormone production
Measures key stress-related hormones. - Supports diagnosis of pheochromocytoma
Core investigation for adrenal tumours. - Captures hormone secretion over time
Reduces impact of short-term fluctuations. - Investigates unexplained hypertension
Useful in difficult-to-control blood pressure. - Supports endocrine specialist assessment
Guides further testing and imaging. - Non-invasive urine-based testing
Avoids repeated blood sampling. - Helps explain episodic symptoms
Such as palpitations and sweating. - Clinically established diagnostic tool
Widely used in endocrinology.
Step-by-Step: How Testing Works
Sample Collection Method
This test requires a urine sample, usually collected over a 24-hour period.
Urine Collection Process
- You receive a specialised collection container and instructions.
- All urine passed over 24 hours is collected.
- The sample is returned to the laboratory for analysis.
- Catecholamine levels are measured and reported.
Access your report
Results are delivered securely online for review with your clinician.
Your Results Explained
Low Levels
Low urine catecholamine levels are usually not clinically significant.
They generally indicate normal or reduced adrenal hormone activity.
Normal Levels
Normal results suggest appropriate catecholamine production.
This makes significant adrenal hormone excess unlikely.
High Levels
Elevated catecholamines may indicate adrenal overproduction.
This can be associated with pheochromocytoma, paraganglioma or severe stress responses.
UK reference ranges vary by hormone and laboratory.
How It Works
Simple steps to get your results
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Attend one of our UK or London clinics, arrange a home nurse visit, or use a finger-prick kit where available.
Get Your Results
Your sample is analysed by accredited UK laboratories, with secure results delivered directly to you.
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WhatsApp UsHow to Prepare for Your Test
Follow these guidelines for accurate results
Sample Timing
Where possible, attend your blood test between 7am and 12pm. Please wait until any short-term illness or infection has fully resolved before testing. Avoid intense exercise for 24–48 hours beforehand, as this can affect certain markers.
Fasting & Hydration
Fasting is not always required, but some tests may recommend it. If fasting is advised, avoid food for 8–12 hours before your appointment and drink water only. Stay well hydrated, as this helps with sample collection and accuracy.
Medications & Supplements
Continue prescribed medications unless advised otherwise by your clinician. Avoid vitamin, mineral, or biotin supplements for at least 24–48 hours before your test, as these can interfere with results. If you are unsure about any medication or supplement, please let us know before your appointment.
Hormones & Menstrual Cycle
For hormone-related tests, timing within your menstrual cycle may be important. If relevant, follow any specific guidance provided on your test page.
If you have any questions or special circumstances, our team is happy to advise before your appointment.