Neuroendocrine Tumors

• Elevated dopamine levels can be seen in certain pheochromocytomas or neuroblastomas.

Stress and Sympathetic Activation

• Intense stress or catecholamine surges might raise circulating levels transiently.

Medication Effects

• Certain drugs may alter dopamine release or metabolism.

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Neurological Disorders

• Low Dopamine:
  Low dopamine is classically linked to Parkinson’s disease and may contribute to depression or decreased motivation.

Dysregulation in Psychiatric Conditions

• Neurochemical Imbalances:
  Imbalances have been implicated in conditions such as ADHD and mood disorders.

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Children

• Dopamine system development is ongoing, and levels may differ compared with adults.

Older Adults

• Dopamine deficiency is more common and may be linked to neurodegenerative diseases.

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Catecholamines (Sympathetic Mediators)

Dopamine, noradrenaline (measured both in blood and urine), and adrenaline (measured in urine) all belong to the catecholamine family.

They are synthesized sequentially from tyrosine, with dopamine serving as the precursor to both noradrenaline and adrenaline.

Blood levels of noradrenaline reflect immediate sympathetic nervous system activity, while urinary measurements of noradrenaline and adrenaline offer a cumulative view of catecholamine production and clearance over time.

Together, these markers provide a comprehensive picture of sympathetic activity and stress response.

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