Serum or plasma concentration of free vanillylmandelic acid (VMA) measured by immunoassay
This test measures the amount of a specific chemical called free vanillylmandelic acid (VMA) in your blood. VMA is a breakdown product of certain hormones produced by the adrenal glands.
["VMA helps assess adrenal gland function and detect conditions like neuroblastoma or pheochromocytoma."]
Key facts at a glance
- LOINC
- 86572-5
- Short code
- FLUBV RNA Tiss Ql NAA+probe
- Synonyms
- FLUBV RNA Tiss Ql NAA+probe
- Category
- chemistry
- Sample
- serum
- Container
- Red-top tube (SST)
- Units
- N/A
- Fasting
- false
- Population
- adult
- Sex
- all
- Age range
- 18–65 years
- Method
- probe-amp-tar
- 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 order this test if they suspect an adrenal gland tumor or other conditions affecting hormone production. It can also be part of evaluating symptoms like headaches, high blood pressure, or unexplained weight changes that might suggest hormonal imbalances.
What to Expect Before the Test
No special preparation is needed for this blood test. You may have a small needle inserted into your arm to draw blood, similar to other routine blood tests. If you’re on blood-thinning medication, let your healthcare provider know before the test.
What the Test Results Mean
Results are interpreted by your doctor based on your overall health and symptoms. Elevated levels may indicate conditions like neuroblastoma (a childhood cancer) or pheochromocytoma (a rare tumor). Lower levels might raise concerns in certain contexts, but results alone don’t diagnose conditions.
Common Conditions Monitored
This test is often used alongside other tests to diagnose or monitor adrenal gland tumors, neuroblastoma, or other conditions affecting hormone secretion. It’s not typically a standalone test for most conditions.
Clinical interpretation
How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.
Free VMA levels can be elevated in patients with tumors that produce excess catecholamines (like pheochromocytoma or neuroblastoma). Doctors use these results to guide further testing, such as imaging or genetic evaluations, to identify the underlying cause of symptoms. However, VMA alone isn’t diagnostic—it’s part of a broader assessment.
Short name
Free VMA
Frequently asked questions
What does a high or low VMA level indicate?
Can diet or medications affect VMA test results?
How often should I get this test?
Sources
- 1
- 2Lab Tests OnlineSource
- 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