Methoxycatecholamines

Methoxycatecholamines

Clinical significance

Methoxycatecholamines are metabolites of adrenal cortical hormonesów. The test is helpful in the diagnosis of adrenal pheochromocytoma, in evaluating the effectiveness of treatment in patientsów with pheochromocytoma detected and surgically removed, and to detect recurrence. Occasionally, the determination of methoxycatecholamines may be ordered to confirm the diagnosis in asymptomatic patientsów, as well as in those with a family history (the presence of pheochromocytoma among relatives).

Patient preparation

The test, performed in a daily urine collectionóurine, requires acidification with 6M HCL. Diet, exercise and someóre medications can affect the concentration of methoxycatecholamines. You should avoid productsów such as - alcohol, coffee (including decaffeinated), tea, chocolate, vanilla, walnuts, bananas, oranges and other citrus fruits for a few days before the test and during the urine collection. Before starting the DZM, consult your doctor about the need to discontinue medicationsów that may affect the test results.

Material: Daily urine collection