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Catecholamine Metabolite Urine Spot Screen (Vanillylmandelic Acid and Homovanillic Acid)

Published: August 9, 2026Updated: August 16, 2026

This test measures two key waste products of certain brain chemicals (catecholamines) in a small urine sample. It helps assess whether your body is producing too much or too little of these chemicals, which can be linked to conditions like nerve system disorders or tumors.

Quick summary

["This simple urine test can help identify potential issues with brain chemistry or health conditions affecting your nervous system."]

Medically reviewed by WellAlly Editorial TeamLast reviewed August 16, 2026Editorial policy

Key facts at a glance

LOINC
12516-1
Short code
UCAT2PC
Synonyms
Catechols sp2 p chal Ur-mCnc
Category
chemistry
Sample
urine
Container
24-hour urine collection container or timed urine collection container with 6N HCl or glacial acetic acid preservative (25 mL of 6N HCl per 24-hour collection)
Units
N/A
Fasting
false
Population
adult
Sex
all
Age range
18–65 years
Method
High-Performance Liquid Chromatography with Electrochemical Detection (HPLC-ECD) or Liquid Chromatography-Tandem Mass Spectrometry (LC-MS/MS)
CPT
82384
SNOMED
104726002
Specimen volume
10 mL aliquot from a well-mixed timed urine collection
Stability
Ambient: 2 hours; Refrigerated (2-8°C): 7 days; Frozen (-20°C or below): 30 days. Acidified specimens are stable for extended periods when frozen.
Hemolysis max
0
Lipemia max
0
Icterus max
0
TAT
72–168 hours
Order
routine

Why This Test Might Be Ordered

Your doctor may recommend this test if you have symptoms like headaches, rapid heartbeat, sweating, or unusual mood changes. It’s also used to check for conditions such as pheochromocytoma (a rare tumor affecting hormone production) or other nerve system disorders that affect catecholamine levels.

What to Expect Before the Test

No special preparation is needed. You’ll provide a small urine sample (spot urine) at your clinic or lab. If you’re taking certain medications that might affect results, let your doctor know.

What the Test Results Mean

Results are qualitative (yes/no) for each metabolite. High levels may suggest overproduction of catecholamines, while very low levels might indicate a deficiency or blockage in their normal processing.

Common Conditions Linked to This Test

Elevated results could point to conditions like pheochromocytoma, Parkinson’s disease, or other neuroendocrine disorders. Low results may raise questions about metabolic or genetic factors affecting catecholamine metabolism.

Reference range

Reference ranges vary by laboratory methodology and specimen collection protocol. For the 2nd post-challenge urine specimen, catecholamine levels are typically expected to return toward or below baseline values following the challenge intervention. Values should be interpreted in conjunction with baseline measurements and clinical context.N/A

Specimen: urine

Patients should avoid certain foods and medications that may interfere with catecholamine testing for at least 72 hours prior to and during specimen collection. Avoid bananas, citrus fruits, chocolate, coffee, tea, vanilla, walnuts, and tyrosine-rich foods. Discontinue MAO inhibitors, tricyclic antidepressants, alpha-blockers, beta-blockers, sympathomimetics, levodopa, alpha-methyldopa, and clonidine when clinically feasible (under physician supervision). Avoid tobacco and strenuous exercise for 24 hours before collection. Maintain adequate hydration during the challenge protocol as directed.

Clinical interpretation

How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.

◆Associated findings1

Short name

Urine Catecholamine Metabolites Spot Screen

Frequently asked questions

How long does it take to get my results?
Results are typically available within a few days to a week, depending on lab processing times. Your doctor will discuss the findings with you during your follow-up visit.
What if my results are abnormal?
If your results are abnormal, your doctor may recommend additional tests, such as blood tests for catecholamines or imaging studies, to determine the underlying cause. They’ll work with you to create a plan for further evaluation or treatment.
Can I drink water before giving my urine sample?
Yes, you can drink water before providing your urine sample, but avoid excessive fluid intake to ensure a concentrated sample. Follow any specific instructions your lab provides for optimal results.
  1. 1
    MedlinePlus — Laboratory TestsSource
  2. 2
    Lab Tests OnlineSource
  3. 3
    Mayo Clinic — Tests & ProceduresSource

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.

Medical Disclaimer

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