Urine Catecholamines-Paed

Pathology category

Biochemistry - referred tests

Code

UCP

Referral code

Request form

Test information

The quantitative measurement of Noradrenaline, Dopamine, HMMA (4‐hydroxy‐3‐methoxymandelic acid)and HVA (4‐hydroxy‐3‐methoxy phenyl acetic acid) in urine, and the calculation of their ratio to creatinine,are used to aid with the diagnosis of neuroblastoma in children. For more information: https://mft.nhs.uk/app/uploads/2020/01/Urine-Catecholamines.pdf

Guidelines

Pre-analytical

Check urine creatinine on non-acidified sample, if <1.00 mmol/L do not send and inform requestor

Reference range

see report

Tube type

Tube type info

Plain (24h acidified urine collection also acceptable)

Special requirements

Urine (fresh), acidify to pH <3 with 5M HCl

Minimum volume

5 mL

Assay frequency

TAT Inpatient (urgent)

TAT Inpatient

4 weeks

TAT GP/Outpatient

4 weeks

Referral lab

Manchester Children's Hospital