Ordering the Catecholamines in Platelets Test
The Catecholamines in Platelets Test from Health Diagnostics measures the levels of key neurotransmitters—adrenaline, noradrenaline, and dopamine—inside your blood platelets. These chemicals play a direct role in regulating blood pressure, heart rate, mood, and stress response. Interestingly, platelet catecholamine levels can reveal imbalances that may not show up in standard blood tests, offering a more detailed look at how your body manages stress and emotional changes.
Ordering this test can help you and your healthcare provider:
- Identify hidden causes of symptoms like unexplained headaches, dizziness, or palpitations
- Monitor the impact of stress on your nervous system and cardiovascular function
- Track changes in neurotransmitter levels during treatment for anxiety, depression, or hypertension
- Detect early signs of neurotransmitter imbalances before they affect daily function
- Guide targeted treatment plans for mood swings, fatigue, or sleep problems
Who Should Consider Platelet Neurotransmitter Testing
People who experience frequent episodes of rapid heartbeat, sweating, or sudden feelings of nervousness may benefit from this test. For example, someone who often feels lightheaded and anxious in stressful situations, but whose standard blood tests are normal, could gain new answers from this specialized test.
Ordering this test may also be helpful in these situations:
- Recurring chest discomfort or palpitations without a clear cause
- Persistent fatigue and low mood that do not improve with rest
- Unexplained high blood pressure, especially in younger people
- Difficulty sleeping, frequent waking, or restless nights
- People with a family history of neurotransmitter-related conditions, such as certain types of hypertension or mood disorders
Testing for platelet catecholamines can help pinpoint the source of symptoms like rapid heart rate, mood changes, or unexplained dizziness, allowing for more precise treatment. Delaying this test may mean missing early signs of neurotransmitter imbalance, which could make symptoms harder to manage over time.
Preparing for Platelet Catecholamine and Dopamine Testing
A 12-hour fast is recommended before this test, and you should avoid caffeine and smoking for 24 hours prior to your blood draw. Make sure to follow any specific instructions your doctor or healthcare provider gives you, as these steps help ensure your results reflect your true baseline levels.
Labs Included When Ordering Your Catecholamines in Platelets Test
| Test Name | Reference Range | What This Measures | Low and High Levels of Catecholamines in Platelets |
|---|---|---|---|
| Catecholamines in Platelets | Adrenaline: 0.01–0.10 Dopamine: 0.05–0.50 Noradrenaline: 0.10–0.60 |
This test measures the amount of adrenaline, noradrenaline, and dopamine stored in your blood platelets. These neurotransmitters help control blood pressure, heart rate, mood, and stress response. |
High levels mean your body may be under ongoing stress, or you may have conditions like hypertension, anxiety, or certain mood disorders.
Low levels mean your body may not be producing enough neurotransmitters, which can be linked to fatigue, depression, or low blood pressure. |
Reference ranges may change slightly as labs update their standards, so always review your results with your healthcare provider.
Catecholamines in Platelets Test FAQ
Is there Catecholamines in Platelets testing near me?
This test is available as a kit that can be collected at a local draw site, making it easier for people with symptoms like unexplained palpitations or anxiety to get tested without traveling far. You can check the draw location link at the top of the page for a site near you.
How do I interpret the test results?
While your treating physician should always review your results, you can also schedule a one-on-one test results review with our clinical team for a detailed explanation and next steps.
What is the cost of the test?
The price for this test includes standard shipping to your address and return shipping to the lab, though draw fees may apply at your local collection site. Ordering this test can help you find the cause of symptoms like rapid heartbeat or mood swings, so you can start targeted treatment sooner.
How often should I retest?
Retesting is usually recommended every 6 to 12 months, especially if you are starting or changing treatment for symptoms like anxiety, high blood pressure, or mood changes. Regular testing helps track your progress and adjust your care plan as needed.
How accurate is the test?
This test uses high-performance liquid chromatography with electrochemical detection, which provides a specificity of 98% and a sensitivity of 97% for measuring platelet catecholamines. TrueHealthLabs.com partners with CLIA-certified and CAP-certified laboratories to uphold rigorous testing standards for dependable results.
Medical Review Board
Reviewed by Jeff Donohue M.D. from Body Logic and Brady Hurst DC, CCCN. Written by True Health Lab’s team of editorial health contributors.
Disclaimer: This information is for educational purposes only and not intended as medical advice. Consult your healthcare provider for personalized guidance.
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