Catecholamine Panel
A group of tests measuring epinephrine, norepinephrine, and dopamine to diagnose pheochromocytoma.
Full Definition
A catecholamine panel is a comprehensive laboratory assessment that measures epinephrine (adrenaline), norepinephrine (noradrenaline), and sometimes dopamine in plasma or urine to evaluate for catecholamine-producing tumors, particularly pheochromocytoma and paraganglioma. The panel may also include catecholamine metabolites such as metanephrines and vanillylmandelic acid (VMA). Testing is typically performed in patients with hypertensive episodes, unexplained hypertension, or clinical suspicion of neuroendocrine tumors. Proper patient preparation and collection conditions are critical for accurate results.
Usage
Usage note: Specify collection method (plasma vs. urine) as interpretation differs between specimens.
In Context
- "The catecholamine panel showed markedly elevated norepinephrine levels consistent with pheochromocytoma." — Endocrinology consultation
- "Twenty-four-hour urine catecholamine collection was preferred over plasma sampling due to episodic secretion." — Diagnostic protocol