Additional Info:
Test includes dopamine, epinephrine, norepinephrine and total catecholamines.
Methodology: High Performance Liquid Chromatography
Specimen Requirements: 2-3 prechilled green-top (sodium heparin) tubes (minimum 2.5 mL of plasma) drawn following an overnight (8-10 hr) fast. Using a refrigerated centrifuge, spin tubes within 30 minutes. Separate plasma and FREEZE immediately at -20 degrees C. Send specimen frozen in plastic vial. Do not thaw.
NOTE:
Label tubes as “supine’ or “upright”.
Patients should be relaxed either in supine or upright position before blood is drawn. States of anxiety and stress can cause fluctuations in the catecholamine levels.
Patient should avoid alcohol, coffee, tea, tobaco and strenuous exercise 3 days prior to collection.
Thawed specimens are unacceptable.
Analytical Time:
5 days
Days Set Up: Monday, Wednesday, Friday
CPT Information:
82384 –