Urine metanephrines test
Quick answer: This test measures metanephrines, breakdown products of adrenaline and noradrenaline, in your urine. It is used to check for rare adrenaline-producing tumours such as phaeochromocytoma, for example in people with episodes of high blood pressure, sweating and palpitations.
- Sample24-hour urine or spot urine
- Takes24 hours of collection, or a few minutes for a spot sample
- Before the testYou will be given collection instructions; some foods and medicines affect results, so tell your doctor what you take but do not stop anything on your own.
How the test is done
- 1You get a container, sometimes with a preservative, and written instructions
- 2You empty your bladder first thing in the morning and note the time
- 3You collect all urine for the next 24 hours, keeping it cool
- 4You return the container to the lab; a spot sample is sometimes used instead
What your results can mean
Reading your report
Normal ranges differ between labs, so compare your result with the range printed on your report and discuss it with your doctor.
If the result is outside the usual range
A high level can point to an adrenaline-producing tumour such as phaeochromocytoma, but mild rises can also be seen with stress, some foods, caffeine and certain medicines. A normal result makes such a tumour less likely.
Who usually has this test
People with episodes of high blood pressure, headache, sweating and a racing heart, those with an adrenal lump on a scan, and people with a family history of these tumours.
Risks and aftercare
There are no risks; take care with any preservative in the container and do not pour it out.
Names and options
Also called: metanephrine, normetanephrine, urine metanephrines
Options
- Metanephrine, 24-hour urine
- Metanephrine, spot urine
- Normetanephrine, 24-hour urine
Listed by the hospital as
- METANEPHRINE, 24 HRS URINE
- METANEPHRINE LEVEL, SPOT URINE
- NOR-METANEPHRINE 24 HRS URINE
Questions about this test
What is a phaeochromocytoma?
It is a rare tumour, usually in the adrenal gland, that releases extra adrenaline and noradrenaline. This can cause sudden spells of high blood pressure, pounding heartbeat, sweating and headache. Most are not cancer and can be treated.
Do I need to avoid any foods before a urine metanephrines test?
Some labs ask you to avoid caffeine, alcohol and certain foods for a day or two before. Follow the lab's instructions, and tell your doctor about all your medicines but do not stop any on your own.
Can stress affect the result?
Yes. Severe stress, illness or very hard exercise can raise metanephrines a little. If a result is only mildly high, your doctor may repeat it or do a blood test.
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Tamara Hospital & IVF Centre, Rajajinagar
34/3, 10th Cross Road, opp. Vardhaka Sardar Patel School, 1st N Block, 2nd Stage, Rajajinagar, Bengaluru 560010
The hospital is open 24 hours. Call before you come to check the timing for your scan or sample collection.
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This page explains each test in general terms so you know what to expect. It is not medical advice: your doctor decides which tests you need and what your results mean. Reference ranges differ between laboratories. Updated 4 November 2026.