Normetanephrine

Normetanephrine (pronounced: nor-met-a-nef-rin) is a metabolite of norepinephrine and epinephrine. It is primarily used as a marker in the diagnosis of pheochromocytoma, a rare tumor of the adrenal glands.

Etymology

The term "Normetanephrine" is derived from the Greek words "normetan", meaning "normal", and "ephrine", referring to the hormone epinephrine.

Function

Normetanephrine is produced when the body breaks down norepinephrine and epinephrine, hormones that help regulate heart rate, blood pressure, and glucose levels. These hormones are produced by the adrenal glands and certain nerve tissues.

Clinical Significance

High levels of normetanephrine in the blood or urine may indicate the presence of a pheochromocytoma. This is often confirmed with a CT scan or MRI.

Related Terms

Norepinephrine: A hormone and neurotransmitter involved in the body's fight or flight response.
Epinephrine: Also known as adrenaline, a hormone that increases heart rate, constricts blood vessels, dilates air passages and participates in the fight-or-flight response of the body.
Pheochromocytoma: A rare, usually benign, tumor that develops in cells in the center of an adrenal gland.

External links

Medical encyclopedia article on Normetanephrine
Wikipedia's article - Normetanephrine

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Normetanephrine