Nor-Adrenaline (Nor-Epinephrine) Plasma Test

The Nor-Adrenaline (Nor-Epinephrine) Plasma Test measures the levels of nor-adrenaline (nor-epinephrine) in your blood plasma.

• To diagnose hypertension and catecholamine-secreting tumour
• To evaluate the effectiveness of treatment for catecholamine-secreting tumours
• To assess the risk of developing hypertension and other related conditions

Your doctor may recommend the Nor-Adrenaline Plasma Test if you have

• symptoms suggestive of hypertension, such as high blood pressure, headaches, or dizziness
• suspected or diagnosed catecholamine-secreting tumours
• family history or genetic risk factors for catecholamine-secreting tumours
• symptoms suggestive of other conditions related to nor-adrenaline abnormalities.

Elevated nor-adrenaline levels may indicate pheochromocytoma, a tumour that produces excessive catecholamines. Low nor-adrenaline levels may be seen in certain medical conditions or as a result of medication use.

A small amount of blood will be drawn from your vein and sent to the laboratory for analysis.

• Avoid consuming bananas, pineapple, chocolates, coffee, ice cream, and cereals high in Vitamin B complex, potatoes, and vanilla 48 hours before the test.
• Provide your doctor with your CT (Computerised tomography) scan or ultrasound reports and medication history.
• Inform your doctor if you have any specific requirements.
• Follow any instructions given by your doctor regarding fasting or medication restrictions.

Blood pressure measurement: To assess overall blood pressure levels

Urine tests for catecholamines: To further evaluate catecholamine levels in the body

Plasma Nor-Epinephrine Test or the Nor-Adrenaline Blood Test

Hypertension, commonly known as high blood pressure, refers to the condition where there is a persistent elevation of blood pressure above normal levels. Blood pressure is typically expressed with two numbers: systolic pressure over diastolic pressure. Systolic pressure represents the pressure in the arteries when the heart contracts and pumps blood, while diastolic pressure represents the pressure in the arteries when the heart is at rest between beats. It is classified into two categories: primary (essential) hypertension and secondary hypertension.

Catecholamine-secreting tumours are usually tumours of the adrenal glands or other tissues that produce excessive amounts of catecholamines, including nor-adrenaline. These tumours can lead to symptoms such as high blood pressure, headaches, and palpitations.