34diohphenylacetateurscnc
This test measures the level of 3,4-dihydroxyphenylacetate (DHPAA), a breakdown product of catecholamines, in urine to help diagnose certain tumors and metabolic disorders.
{"DHPAA is a waste product from catecholamine metabolism","This test helps diagnose tumors like neuroblastoma and pheochromocytoma","A 24-hour urine collection is typically required","Results are reported as moles per volume","Abnormal levels may indicate the need for further testing"}
Key facts at a glance
- LOINC
- 55816-3
- Short code
- DOPAC
- Synonyms
- 3,4-DiOH-phenylacetate Ur-sCnc
- Category
- chemistry
- Sample
- urine
- Container
- Sterile urine collection container, 24-hour collection container with preservative if needed
- Units
- N/A
- Ref low
- 1
- Ref high
- 5
- Fasting
- false
- Population
- adult
- Sex
- all
- Age range
- 0–120 years
- Method
- High Performance Liquid Chromatography (HPLC) with Electrochemical Detection or Liquid Chromatography-Tandem Mass Spectrometry (LC-MS/MS)
- CPT
- 82540
- SNOMED
- 271544004
- Specimen volume
- Minimum 5 mL, preferably 10-20 mL for complete analysis
- Stability
- Room temperature: 24-48 hours; Refrigerated (2-8°C): 7 days; Frozen (-20°C or below): 30 days. Protect from light.
- Hemolysis max
- 0
- Lipemia max
- 0
- Icterus max
- 0
- TAT
- 24–72 hours
- Order
- routine
What is this test?
The urine 3,4-dihydroxyphenylacetate (DHPAA) test measures the amount of DHPAA in your urine. DHPAA is a chemical compound produced when your body breaks down catecholamines, which are hormones like adrenaline and noradrenaline. This test helps healthcare providers evaluate whether your body is producing or breaking down these hormones normally.
How is the test performed?
For this test, you will typically need to collect all urine produced over a 24-hour period. Your healthcare provider will give you a special container for collection. During the collection period, keep the container refrigerated or in a cool place. Make sure to follow all instructions carefully and label the container with your name, date, and time of collection.
Do I need to prepare for the test?
Before the test, inform your doctor about all medications, vitamins, and supplements you are taking, as some substances can affect catecholamine levels. You may need to avoid certain foods like coffee, chocolate, and bananas for 24-48 hours before the test, as these can influence the results. Avoid strenuous exercise before collection, as it can also affect catecholamine levels.
Reference range
Reference range: 1.0-5.0 mmol/mol creatinine (varies by laboratory). Contact laboratory for institution-specific reference intervals.N/A
No special preparation required. Avoid caffeine, bananas, vanilla, and chocolate 24 hours before collection. Certain medications may interfere; consult physician regarding medication adjustment. Avoid strenuous exercise before collection.
Clinical interpretation
How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.
◆Associated findings1
Frequently asked questions
Is this test painful?
How long does it take to get results?
What do abnormal results mean?
Do I need to fast before this test?
Can children undergo this test?
Sources
- 1
- 2
- 3
Click any link to access the full source. PubMed Central (PMC) links provide free full-text access.
This information is for educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment.
This content is for general informational and educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the guidance of a qualified healthcare provider with any questions you have about a medical condition, and never disregard professional medical advice or delay seeking it because of something you read here.
If you think you may have a medical emergency, call your local emergency number or go to the nearest emergency department immediately.
Medically reviewed by WellAlly Editorial Team Last reviewed August 16, 2026. · Read our editorial policy