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Total metanephrines in the urine
Medical expert of the article
Last reviewed: 05.07.2025
Reference values (norm) for urinary excretion of total metanephrines are 2-345 mcg/day.
Total metanephrines are intermediate products of adrenaline metabolism. 55% of adrenaline metabolism products are excreted in urine in the form of metanephrine. A significant increase in the content of metanephrines in urine is detected in patients with pheochromocytoma, neuroblastoma (in children), ganglioneuroma. The study is prescribed together with the determination of adrenaline and noradrenaline in urine in order to increase the probability of diagnosing the listed diseases.
To diagnose pheochromocytoma, it is better to study the concentration of metanephrines in a single portion of urine obtained immediately after an attack of arterial hypertension. False-positive results are possible in patients receiving chlorpromazine, benzodiazepines, or sympathomimetics.
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