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Medical information Clinical review pending

Genetic Testing

Catecholamines Fractionated Random Urine Test

Measures catecholamine hormone levels (epinephrine, norepinephrine, dopamine) in urine to help detect certain tumors and assess stress response.

General information only: This page is not a diagnosis or personal medical advice. A qualified clinician should decide whether testing is appropriate and interpret results in context.

Review status: No completed medical review is recorded for this page.

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Counselor guidance included Confidential handling Kenya-wide coordination

At a glance

Plan your test

Sample
A 50 mL (10 mL minimum) aliquot of random urine.
Results
Typically available within two days. Confirm with the laboratory before booking.
Preparation
Avoid the following substances at least 72 hours before and during specimen collection: Alpha-one blockers, Aminophylline, Amphetamines, Ampicillin, Beta-blockers, Ephedrine, Imipramine, Methyldopa, MAO inhibitors, Nicotine, Phenacetin, Phenothiazine, Theophylline, Vasodilators, Aspirin, PAS, Alpha-2 agonists, Bromocriptine, Calcium channel blockers (long-term use), Clofibrate, Propranolol, Penicillin, Reserpine, Thyroxine, Alpha-methyldopa, Isoproterenol, Labetalol, Mandelamine, Paracetamol, Cimetidine, Metoclopramide. Also avoid vigorous exercise, alcoholic beverages, tea/coffee, and tobacco.
Test priceKSh 10,530

Payment: M-Pesa and card options can be confirmed during booking.

Insurance & government schemes

Is this test covered for you?

We help you verify whether the Catecholamines Fractionated Random Urine Test test can be claimed against your insurer, employer scheme or a Kenyan government health scheme — before you book. Coverage depends on your plan, clinical indication and your provider's rules; final approval always rests with them.

Talk to a claims advisor

Providers & schemes we can help you check

Government & public schemes

SHIF — Social Health Insurance Fund Linda Mama EduAfya NHIF (legacy cards)

Eligibility and benefits follow the current rules of the Social Health Authority (SHA) and applicable government programmes.

Private insurers & employer schemes

Jubilee Health AAR APA Britam CIC Madison Resolution Pioneer Minet Old Mutual GA Life Heritage + other licensed insurers

Names shown for identification only — listing does not imply partnership or guarantee of coverage.

Have these ready when we check

  • Insurer or scheme name & policy / member number
  • A clinician's request / prescription for the test
  • Pre-authorisation letter, if your plan requires one

Free coverage check

Ask us to verify your cover

Send your details and our claims team confirms what documents you need and whether pre-authorisation applies — usually the same working day.

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Used only to process your coverage check — see our Privacy Policy. Verification support is free and does not guarantee your provider will pay.

01

Start with fit

Is this the right test for you?

The best test starts with a clear clinical question. These are common reasons a clinician or family may consider this test.

  • ✓Symptoms of potential pheochromocytoma (e.g., severe headaches, palpitations, sweating)
  • ✓Investigation of suspected neuroblastoma
  • ✓Monitoring patients with known neuroendocrine tumors
  • ✓Assessment of adrenal gland function
  • ✓Evaluation of unexplained high blood pressure
  • ✓Assessment of stress response
02

In plain language

What this test helps you understand

This test helps in the diagnosis and monitoring of conditions associated with abnormal catecholamine production, such as pheochromocytoma and neuroblastoma. It can also provide insights into the body's stress response.
The Catecholamines Fractionated Random Urine Test measures the levels of catecholamines—epinephrine, norepinephrine, and dopamine—in a urine sample. These hormones are involved in the body’s stress response and can be elevated in certain conditions, including specific types of tumors. This test provides valuable information for diagnosis and management.

This test specifically measures the concentration of three key catecholamines in a random urine sample:

* Epinephrine * Norepinephrine * Dopamine

Monitoring these hormones can help detect conditions such as pheochromocytoma, neuroblastoma, and other neuroendocrine tumors. It can also help assess the body's response to stress.

Individuals experiencing symptoms like severe headaches, palpitations, excessive sweating, high blood pressure, or unexplained weight loss may benefit from this test. It is also recommended for those with risk factors for tumors or adrenal disorders. Discuss with your doctor if this test is appropriate for you.

Taking this test offers benefits such as early detection of potential tumors, assessment of stress response, guidance for treatment decisions, and monitoring of existing conditions. Results are typically available within two days. Elevated levels may indicate a need for further investigation, and results should be discussed with a healthcare provider.
03

Medical review status

Clinical review pending

A completed medical review is not recorded for this page. No clinician has endorsed the information shown here. Please discuss testing decisions with a qualified healthcare professional.

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04

A simple process

What happens next?

You do not have to navigate the test alone. We help you move from question to next step.

1

Speak with us

We check the test and answer your questions before collection.

2

Give your sample

Choose home collection or a coordinated hub visit in Kenya. We explain whether this test uses a cheek swab or blood draw.

3

Understand your report

A counselor helps you understand the result and the next steps.

05

Choose your collection

Home collection or a lab visit

We will explain the sample, preparation, and next steps before anything is collected.

Home collection

Choose a coordinated visit at home or another convenient location. Our team confirms the appointment and sample requirements in advance.

Lab or hub visit

Prefer to visit a coordinated location? We can guide you to the right hub and explain what to expect when you arrive.

Ask about locations →
PreparationAvoid the following substances at least 72 hours before and during specimen collection: Alpha-one blockers, Aminophylline, Amphetamines, Ampicillin, Beta-blockers, Ephedrine, Imipramine, Methyldopa, MAO inhibitors, Nicotine, Phenacetin, Phenothiazine, Theophylline, Vasodilators, Aspirin, PAS, Alpha-2 agonists, Bromocriptine, Calcium channel blockers (long-term use), Clofibrate, Propranolol, Penicillin, Reserpine, Thyroxine, Alpha-methyldopa, Isoproterenol, Labetalol, Mandelamine, Paracetamol, Cimetidine, Metoclopramide. Also avoid vigorous exercise, alcoholic beverages, tea/coffee, and tobacco.
SampleA 50 mL (10 mL minimum) aliquot of random urine.
MethodologyConfirm with the laboratory before booking.
PrivacyYour sample and report are handled confidentially. Ask the team how your information is stored and shared.
Certain medications, foods, and physiological stress can affect catecholamine levels. False positives or negatives can occur. Results must be interpreted in the context of the patient's clinical presentation.
06

Read your report

What common result terms mean

PositiveA finding was identified. Your clinician or counselor will explain what it means for your care.
NegativeThe specific finding tested for was not identified. It does not rule out every possible cause.
VUSA variant was found, but current evidence is not enough to classify it. Your counselor can explain follow-up.
07

Questions people ask

Frequently asked questions

Catecholamines are hormones like epinephrine, norepinephrine, and dopamine that help the body respond to stress. This test measures their levels in urine.
It helps detect certain tumors (like pheochromocytoma or neuroblastoma) that produce excess catecholamines, and can also assess stress response.
You need to avoid certain medications, foods (like tea/coffee), alcohol, tobacco, and vigorous exercise for at least 72 hours before collecting the urine sample. A detailed list is provided in the preparation section.
A random urine sample is required. Specific instructions on collection volume and preservation are provided.
Results are typically available within two days, but please confirm the exact turnaround time with the laboratory.
Abnormal results may indicate a medical condition requiring further investigation. It's essential to discuss your results with your doctor for proper interpretation.
08

Collaboration

Open for partnership with hospitals, clinics, doctors & researchers

Whether you are referring patients, building a research programme or supporting students, we work as an extension of your team — with responsive communication and clear scientific standards.

Hospitals & clinics

Referral pathways, coordinated sample logistics and shared reporting that fits your clinical workflow.

Doctors & specialists

LOINC-coded reports, ACMG-based variant classification and a direct scientific line for complex cases.

Research institutions

Sanger sequencing, NGS panels and custom assays — with project design support, batch pricing and agreed turnaround commitments.

Students & academic projects

Discounted laboratory services for college, master's and PhD research projects — including proposal guidance and cost-effective batch testing.

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09

Trust & transparency

Sources, standards & how this page is maintained

Standards & references

  • ACMG/AMP technical standards for sequence variant interpretation
  • ClinGen curation and gene–disease validity frameworks where applicable
  • LOINC-coded reporting for interoperable results
  • ISO 9001:2015 quality management; ISO 15189 accreditation in progress

Page provenance

  • Last updated: September 27, 2026
  • Medical review: not yet completed
  • Written for patients & clinicians in Kenya; reviewed periodically against current guidance

Medical disclaimer: this page is general information, not a diagnosis or personal medical advice. Testing decisions and result interpretation should be made with a qualified healthcare professional.

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