The presence of abnormal levels of 3-methoxy-4-hydroxyphenyl glycol
(MHPG) in the cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) of some patients with affective
disorders may indicate abnormal norepinephrine metabolism in these
patients. The authors evaluated the relationship between norepinephrine and
MHPG in CSF and found that both are present in increasing levels as more
CSF is removed from the lumbar puncture needle. Norepinephrine and MHPG are
closely related, although norepinephrine levels are more variable within
and between subjects. Both norepinephrine and MHPG levels in CSF should
provide important information about norepinephrine metabolism in affective
disorders.Abstract Teaser