Dopamine Hormone Neurotransmitter - EDTA
Also Known As
* Dopamine Blood Test
* Catecholamine Dopamine (Blood)
* Dopamine Level (Blood)
* Dopamine Hormone Assay
* Neurotransmitter Dopamine (Blood)
* Plasma Catecholamine Fraction (Dopamine)
* Dopamine ELISA
* Adrenal Medulla Hormone (Dopamine)
* Dopamine Measurement (Plasma)
Test Parameters Included
- Plasma Dopamine Concentration (ng/mL) - catecholamine neurotransmitter quantified by ELISA (EIA)
- Pathologist Neuroendocrine Remark - correlated with autonomic, psychiatric, and renal reference intervals
Department
Methodology
ELISA (EIA) is an immunological assay that quantifies the concentration of specific substances, such as hormones, in a sample. For dopamine, this method typically involves a competitive binding reaction where dopamine in the patient's sample competes with a known amount of enzyme-labeled dopamine for binding sites on immobilized antibodies specific to dopamine. After washing away unbound substances, a substrate is added that reacts with the bound enzyme, producing a color change. The intensity of the color is inversely proportional to the concentration of dopamine in the sample, allowing for its accurate quantification.
Sample Required
(Dopamine, being an unstable catecholamine, is typically measured in plasma rather than serum, to prevent its degradation by platelets and other blood components during clotting. A 3ML whole blood sample collected in an EDTA tube is spun down immediately after collection to separate the plasma, which is then usually frozen rapidly to preserve the dopamine concentration.)
Preparation
* Dietary Restrictions: For at least 2-3 days prior to the test, you must avoid foods and beverages that can interfere with catecholamine levels. This includes:
* Caffeine (coffee, tea, soda, energy drinks)
* Alcohol
* Nicotine
* Bananas
* Citrus fruits (especially oranges, grapefruits)
* Vanilla (including vanilla-flavored products)
* Chocolate
* Nuts
* Cheese
* Avocados
* Medication Review: Inform your doctor about ALL medications you are taking, including over-the-counter drugs, herbal supplements, and recreational drugs. Many medications can significantly affect dopamine levels. Your doctor may advise you to temporarily discontinue certain medications (e.g., tricyclic antidepressants, MAO inhibitors, L-Dopa, certain antihypertensives, stimulants, decongestants) for a period before the test. Do NOT stop any prescribed medication without explicit instruction from your doctor.
* Stress and Physical Activity Avoidance: Minimize physical and emotional stress before and during the collection. Avoid strenuous exercise for at least 24 hours prior to the blood draw. Try to be well-rested.
* Smoking: Avoid smoking for at least 24 hours before the test.
* Comfortable Position: For the blood draw, you may be asked to rest quietly in a supine (lying down) position for 15-30 minutes prior to collection to minimize stress-related fluctuations.
* Hydration: Drink adequate water to stay hydrated, but avoid sugary drinks or those containing restricted substances.
Schedule Report
9 Days
Emergency Report
Yes
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the Dopamine Hormone test used for?
This test measures dopamine levels in your plasma, primarily to help diagnose and monitor neuroendocrine tumors like pheochromocytomas or neuroblastomas that produce excessive catecholamines.
Why is plasma used instead of serum for this test?
Dopamine is unstable in blood and can be rapidly degraded in serum during clotting. Plasma, separated quickly from red blood cells and platelets, helps preserve dopamine's concentration for accurate measurement.
What type of sample is needed for this test?
A 3ML whole blood sample collected in an EDTA tube is required, from which plasma is then separated.
How long does it take to get the results?
The report turnaround time for the Dopamine Hormone - Plasma test is typically 9 days.
What does a high dopamine level indicate?
Elevated dopamine levels in plasma can strongly suggest a catecholamine-producing tumor, such as a pheochromocytoma, paraganglioma, or neuroblastoma. It needs to be interpreted with other test results and clinical findings.
What are the symptoms that would prompt a doctor to order this test?
Symptoms like unexplained high blood pressure (especially episodic), palpitations, severe headaches, excessive sweating, anxiety, or tremors may indicate a need for this test.
Are there any special preparations required for this test?
Yes, strict preparation is crucial. You must avoid certain foods (e.g., bananas, caffeine, chocolate), medications, alcohol, nicotine, and strenuous exercise for several days before the test to prevent false results.
Is fasting required for the Dopamine Hormone test?
While not strictly a "fasting" test, it's recommended to avoid certain foods and beverages that contain catecholamines or their precursors, which effectively means a modified diet for several days.
Are there other tests related to dopamine levels?
Yes, other related tests include plasma metanephrines, 24-hour urine catecholamines and metanephrines, and urine VMA and HVA, which are often used in conjunction for a comprehensive diagnosis.
How is this test used to monitor patients with diagnosed tumors?
For patients with known dopamine-producing tumors, periodic testing helps assess the effectiveness of treatment, detect recurrence, or monitor disease progression.
Test Description
Test Code
D11
- High-end laboratory & medical equipment.
- Outstanding doctor team.
- Personalized care & high-quality service.
- Tailormade health screening packages.