Alberta Precision Laboratories

--- Query Results ---

Organization:

Alberta Precision Laboratories

Message Alert:

PLEASE NOTE: This Test Directory is in an interim state and due to changes pertaining to the DynaLIFE transition, performing site for routing has not been updated. Please refer to Laboratory Information System for appropriate routing.

Test Name/Synonym:

Catecholamines (Synonym: Dopamine, Epinephrine, Norepinephrine)

Test Includes:

Testing includes Epinephrine, Norepinephrine and Dopamine.

Ordering Alert:

Plasma catecholamines should not be ordered as the first line test to assess pheochromocytoma or paraganglioma. Order a metanephrines (plasma or urine) instead.

Collection Alert:

Keep tubes cold (immerse in ice water) before collecting and immediately after collection.
Indicate whether patient is “active” or “resting” on requisition or in electronic ordering system.

LABID (Connect Care):

LAB870

Test Code:

CALGARY ZONE	CATP
CENTRAL, NORTH, SOUTH ZONES	CAT

Primary Container:

LAVENDER EDTA

Minimum Collection Volume:

2.5 mL plasma

Specimen Collection Requirements:

Collect two LAVENDER EDTA

Note:

For Adrenal Venous Sampling (AVS) ONLY, One tube is acceptable; 2 tubes are not required.
For resting specimen, have patient in resting position for at least 30 minutes before collection.

Test Resources:

Calgary Zone: Microcollection Minimum Whole Blood Volumes

Processing:

Centrifuge, aliquot and freeze each tube within 30 minutes of collection.

Transportation:

Frozen

Method and Interpretation of Results:

False positive increases in urine and plasma metanephrines and catecholamines have been associated with the following drugs or classes of drugs: anti-depressants, anti-psychotics, some beta blockers, dihydropyridine calcium channel blockers, some anxiolytics, anti-Parkinson’s drugs, decongestants, phenoxybenzamine.

Interpretation of results while on one of these agents should be interpreted with caution and put into clinical context.

Testing Schedule:

Monthly

Reference Interval:

See Laboratory Report

Testing Area:

TDM/Toxicology

Performing Site:

Calgary: Diagnostic and Scientific Centre

Additional Test Information:

Temporarily referred out to Dynacare

Last Updated On:

Tuesday, August 23, 2022