Test Code PMET Metanephrines, fractionated, free, plasma
Specimen Requirements
Specimen Type: Plasma
Container/Tube: Purple (EDTA)
Volume: 3.0 mL whole blood or 1.5 mL plasma
Minimum Volume: 0.6 mL plasma
Collection Instructions:
Patient should be relaxed in a seated or supine position 30 mins before blood is drawn. Overnight fasting preferred, patient should avoid caffeine/nicotine/alcohol and strenuous exercise 12 hrs prior to blood draw.
Centrifuge and separate the plasma within 1 hr of collection. Separated plasma should be stored frozen.
Specimen Stability
Specimen Type | Plasma EDTA |
---|---|
Ambient | 6 hours |
Refrigerate | 10 days |
Frozen | 14 days (preferred) |
Methodology
Liquid Chromatography Tandem Mass Spectrometry (LC-MS/MS)
Days and Times Performed
Monday and Thursday, TAT 3 - 9 days
Specimen Condition
Haemolysis | OK |
---|---|
Icterus | OK |
Lipaemia | OK |
Others | Not applicable |
Reference Interval
Seated Reference Interval:
Normetanephrine, Free: ≤ 1180 pmol/L
Metanephrine, Free: ≤ 510 pmol/L
Supine Reference Interval:
Normetanephrine, Free: ≤ 953 pmol/L
Metanephrine, Free: ≤ 371 pmol/L
Testing Laboratory
National University Hospital
Clinical Chemistry, 67728489
Useful For
Screening test for presumptive diagnosis of catecholamine-secreting pheochromocytomas or paragangliomas.
Service Code
33421
Update
Last updated 26/11/2024
Test Classification
This test was developed by NUH Laboratory Medicine. This laboratory test has undergone in-house evaluation with appropriate quality assurance and control measures in line with laboratory best practice and accreditation requirements.
Reagents used in this test are ordered through HSA’s Special Access Route, which provides interim access without full registration.