Epinephrine, Norepinephrine, Dopamine, Catecholamines Total.

Clinical Significance: Clinically, the measurement of circulating catecholamines is valuable in the diagnosis of catecholamine secreting tumors associated chiefly with hypertension (Pheochromocytomas, Neuroblastomas, and Gangliomas) and with the evaluation of Orthostatic Hypotension. Includes: Epinephrine, Norepinephrine, Dopamine, Catecholamines Total Patient Preparation: It is preferable for the patient to be off medications for a minimum of 18-24 hours prior to collection. However, common antihypertensives (diuretics, ACE inhibitors, calcium channel blockers, alpha and beta blockers) cause minimal or no interference. Patient should avoid alcohol, coffee, tea, tobacco and strenuous exercise for 8-12 hours prior to collection. Methodology Chromatography/Electrochemical Detection Reference Range(s): Adult Reference Ranges Epinephrine <95 pg/mL Norepinephrine 217-1109 pg/mL Dopamine <20 pg/mL Catecholamines, Total 242-1125 pg/mL Pediatric Reference Ranges: Due to stress, plasma catecholamine levels are generally unreliable in infants and small children. Urinary catecholamine assays are more reliable.