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Catecholamine Metabolite (VMA) in Urine, 24-Hour Collection

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

This test measures the amount of vanillylmandelic acid (VMA), a breakdown product of certain stress hormones, in your urine over 24 hours. It helps assess whether your body is producing too much of these hormones, which can occur with certain cancers or neurological conditions.

Quick summary

["VMA urine tests help detect abnormal hormone levels linked to conditions like pheochromocytoma or neuroblastoma."]

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

Key facts at a glance

LOINC
72051-6
Short code
DATECATHETERREMOVAL
Synonyms
—
Category
chemistry
Sample
serum
Container
Red-top tube (SST)
Units
N/A
Fasting
false
Population
adult
Sex
all
Age range
18–65 years
Specimen volume
5 mL
Stability
Room temperature: 4h, Refrigerated: 24h, Frozen: 7d
Hemolysis max
500
Lipemia max
1000
Icterus max
500
TAT
4–24 hours
Order
routine

Why This Test Is Done

Your doctor may recommend a VMA urine test if you have symptoms like severe headaches, high blood pressure, rapid heartbeat, or unexplained weight loss. It’s also used to monitor treatment progress in patients with suspected hormone-related cancers.

What to Expect Before the Test

You’ll need to collect all urine for 24 hours, starting after midnight on one day and ending just before midnight the next. Follow your doctor’s instructions carefully to ensure accurate results.

How the Test Works

After collecting your urine sample, it’s sent to a lab for analysis. The lab measures VMA levels to check for abnormal hormone activity in your body.

Possible Results and Next Steps

High VMA levels may indicate conditions like pheochromocytoma or neuroblastoma. Low levels could suggest other issues, such as medication effects or normal variations. Your doctor will discuss results and next steps with you.

Clinical interpretation

How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.

Clinical Significance: Highlights

Short name

VMA Urine Test

Frequently asked questions

What does a VMA urine test measure?
A VMA urine test measures vanillylmandelic acid, a waste product of stress hormones like adrenaline and noradrenaline, collected over 24 hours to assess hormone-related health risks.
How long does a VMA urine test take to return results?
Results typically take 3–7 business days, depending on lab processing times. Your doctor will contact you once they’re ready for review.
Can I drink alcohol before a VMA urine test?
Alcohol in moderation is usually fine, but avoid excessive amounts as they may affect hormone levels. Follow your doctor’s specific instructions for the 24-hour collection period.
  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