Metanephrines,URINE-24 HOURS

A 24-hour urine metanephrines test measures metanephrine and normetanephrine levels to detect catecholamine-secreting tumors (pheochromocytoma or paraganglioma). It’s used when patients have unexplained high blood pressure, episodic headaches, sweating, or palpitations, and to monitor treatment or recurrence. Accurate collection of all urine for 24 hours is essential; medications, certain foods, and stress can affect results.

Normal 24‑hour urinary metanephrine (one of the fractionated metanephrines) is generally <0.3 mg/24 h (300 µg/24 h). 24‑hour urinary normetanephrine is typically <0.9 mg/24 h (900 µg/24 h), with combined total metanephrines usually <1.2 mg/24 h (1,200 µg/24 h). Reference ranges vary by lab—compare results with the lab’s stated normal limits and clinical context.

For many 24‑hour urine collections (especially catecholamines/metanephrines), avoid caffeine (coffee, tea, cola), alcohol, chocolate, vanilla, bananas, nuts and citrus; limit high‑vitamin C supplements. Also avoid or tell your clinician about certain medications (aspirin/NSAIDs, decongestants, diuretics, some antidepressants). Follow the lab or doctor’s specific instructions because requirements vary by test. If unsure, contact the testing center.

24‑hour urinary metanephrines costs vary by country and provider. On the NHS the test is provided free with a clinician referral. Private UK labs typically charge about £40–£150. In the US out‑of‑pocket prices generally range from roughly $100–$400 depending on the lab and insurance. In India private lab prices commonly fall between ₹800–₹2,500.

If metanephrines are high, it suggests excess catecholamine production—often from a pheochromocytoma or paraganglioma—but false positives can result from stress, some medications, caffeine, smoking, or improper sampling. Next steps usually include repeat plasma or 24‑hour urinary fractionated metanephrines, medication review, blood pressure control, imaging (CT/MRI), endocrinology referral, and, if a tumor is confirmed, pre‑op blockade and surgical removal.

A 24-hour urine test for suspected adrenal tumor measures hormones or their breakdown products collected over one day—commonly urinary free cortisol (for Cushing’s) or catecholamines/metanephrines and VMA (for pheochromocytoma). You collect all urine for 24 hours (discard the first void, keep refrigerated) and follow medication/diet instructions. Results detect excess hormone production from adrenal tumors and guide further imaging or treatment.