The test analyses Metanephrine and Normetanephrine (and 3-Methoxytyramine in non-adults).

If results are moderately elevated (3 x upper limit), it is recommended that a second analysis is performed with a 12 hour fasting specimen collected after rest (>15 minutes) in the supine position as requirements. Consideration should also be given to medications, especially those with potential to alter levels of biogenic amines such as Aldomet, Tricyclic Antidepressants, MAO inhibitors and other adrenergic agonists or antagonists. Potential illnesses may also contribute to altered states of biogenic amines. Other biochemical evaluation such as 24 hour Urinary Metanephrines should also be considered.

Persistent highly elevated levels may be associated with the presence of a neuro-endocrine tumour and the profile of excretion may relate to tumour type.

Clinical Pharmacology can be contacted on ph: (03) 9496 5586 for result enquiries.

It is preferred that the patient be resting supine for 15 minutes prior to collection. It should be noted on the request if the sample is fasting/non-fasting and supine/non-supine.

The specimen is usually collected from an indwelling line.

Instructions for: Austin Pathology Collections Staff 

• Samples from within Austin Health should be immediately sent to the laboratory on ice.

Instructions for: External Referring Laboratories

• Samples referred from outside Austin Health should have plasma immediately separated by centrifugation at 4°C and the plasma transported frozen at -20°C.

This test cannot be added after 72 hours of collection.