Polyamine levels (putrescine, spermidine, spermine) were determined in 24‐hour urine samples by a high voltage electrophoresis technique. Normal values were established in 42 normal volunteers. Thirty‐eight of 56 patients with metastatic cancer had two or more levels elevated. Approximately two‐thirds of patients with metastatic adenocarcinoma. metastatic squamous cell cancer or metastatic disease to the liver, lungs, or bones had elevated levels. All 6 patients with localized malignant tumors had elevated urinary polyamine levels. Elevations were also seen in patients with benign prostatic hypertrophy and bronchial adenoma.

Normal ranges for urinary polyamines have been obtained. Non-malignant genitourinary tract disease is not associated with elevated urinary polyamines. A high correlation exists between the presence of active urologic cancer and elevated urinary excretion of polyamines. Post-treatment polyamines correlate with the continued presence or absence of genitourinary tract malignancy.