Adrenaline (Epinephrine) Urine 24H

Adrenaline (Epinephrine) Urine 24H

What it is

The Adrenaline (Epinephrine) Urine 24-hour test measures the amount of adrenaline, also known as epinephrine, excreted in the urine over a 24-hour period. Adrenaline is a hormone produced by the adrenal glands that helps regulate stress responses, blood pressure, and heart rate. This test is often used to detect adrenal gland disorders.

Uses

This test is primarily used to diagnose and monitor adrenal tumors such as pheochromocytoma and paraganglioma. It also helps evaluate unexplained high blood pressure, episodes of palpitations, headaches, or excessive sweating that may be linked to abnormal adrenaline production.

Symptoms That May Lead to the Test

Doctors may recommend this test if a patient experiences persistent or episodic high blood pressure, rapid heartbeat, severe headaches, anxiety, trembling, excessive sweating, or weight loss without clear cause. These symptoms may suggest abnormal adrenaline secretion.

Abnormal Results

High Adrenaline: May indicate pheochromocytoma, paraganglioma, severe stress, or certain heart conditions. High levels can also occur with stimulant medications.

Low Adrenaline: Generally less clinically significant, but may be seen in underactive adrenal glands or certain nervous system disorders.

Risks

This test involves only urine collection, so there are no direct risks. The main inconvenience is collecting all urine over a 24-hour period, which requires careful handling and storage of the sample.