Catecholamines are hormones produced by the adrenal glands, which are found on top of the kidneys. They are released into the blood during times of physical or emotional stress.
The major catecholamines are dopamine, norepinephrine, and epinephrine (which used to be called adrenalin).
This test is used to diagnose or rule out a pheochromocytoma or neuroblastoma. It may also be done in patients with those conditions to determine if treatment is working
How the Test Is Performed
Catecholamines are more often measured with a urine test than with this blood test.
Blood is drawn from a vein, usually from the inside of the elbow or the back of the hand. The puncture site is cleaned with antiseptic. An elastic band is placed around the upper arm to apply pressure and cause the vein to swell with blood.
A needle is inserted into the vein, and the blood is collected in an air-tight vial or a syringe. During the procedure, the band is removed to restore circulation. Once the blood has been collected, the needle is removed, and the puncture site is covered to stop any bleeding.
Normal Values
Normal value ranges may vary slightly among different laboratories.
Epinephrine: 20 ng/100 mL (ng/mL = nanograms per milliliter)
Norepinephrine: 60 ng/100 mL
http://health.nytimes.com/health/guides/test/catecholamines-blood/overview.html#Normal-Values
No comments:
Post a Comment