Metanephrines, Fractionated, Free, lc ms ms, Plasma Test

The plasma free metanephrines is used to diagnose the presence of a rare tumor known as pheochromocytoma that releases out excess metaphrines. Testing can also be used when the tumor has been removed and treated to monitor its recurrence. Epinephrine and norpinephrine are hormones called catecholamine that is released in the blood in response to physical and mental stress and help in regulating blood pressure throughout the body. Metanephrines and normetanephrines are breakdown products of these hormones. Urine metanephrines test or plasma free metanephrines test evaluates an individual for pheochromocytoma. The blood test in most useful when a person has persistent hypertension. The hormones do not stay in the blood for long. Urine test checks the presence of hormones for 24 hours.

Catecholamine levels are affected by various kinds of food, taking medical drugs or mental stress. The person being tested should talk to the health practitioner regarding the drugs he is consuming be it prescribed or not prescribed. The person may also be asked by the practitioner to avoid certain food items. Also the person should not be put under circumstances where he suffers from physical or emotional stress. These situations if not taken care of can increase catecholamine levels and hence metanephrine level will be affected.

Blood for plasma free metanephrine test is conducted by collecting blood sample from the vein in the arm of the patient. It is advised for the patient to lie down while the sample is being taken by the practitioner. The health care provider present at the laboratory will instruct the patient regarding the specifications.