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Homovanillic Acid/Creatinine Ratio, 24-Hour Urine

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

A 24-hour urine test that measures homovanillic acid, a dopamine metabolite, relative to creatinine to help evaluate catecholamine-producing tumors.

Quick summary

["An elevated result may support increased dopamine production, but it must be interpreted alongside symptoms and other tests."]

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

Key facts at a glance

LOINC
13760-4
Short code
HVA/Creat 24h Ur
Synonyms
HVA/Creat 24h Ur
Category
kidney
Sample
urine
Container
Sterile urine container
Units
N/A
Fasting
false
Population
adult
Sex
all
Age range
18–65 years
Specimen volume
10 mL
Stability
Room temperature: 2h, Refrigerated: 24h, Frozen: 7d
Hemolysis max
0
Lipemia max
0
Icterus max
0
TAT
4–24 hours
Order
routine

What is this test?

This test measures homovanillic acid (HVA) in urine collected for 24 hours. HVA is a breakdown product of dopamine, and comparing it with urine creatinine helps account for differences in urine concentration.

Why might I need this test?

It may be used when symptoms or other findings raise concern for a tumor that produces dopamine or related catecholamines, particularly neuroblastoma in children. It can also help monitor certain tumors or genetic conditions that affect dopamine metabolism.

How is the test performed?

You collect all urine for a full 24-hour period into a labeled container provided by the laboratory. The total volume and collection times are recorded so the laboratory can calculate the HVA-to-creatinine ratio.

How do I prepare for the test?

Follow the laboratory's collection instructions carefully, including the exact start and stop times. Refrigerate the container if instructed, record any missed collections, and ask the laboratory about diet or medication restrictions before collecting the sample.

Clinical interpretation

How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.

◆Associated findings1

Short name

24-Hour Urine HVA/Creatinine Ratio

Frequently asked questions

What does homovanillic acid measure?
Homovanillic acid is a metabolite formed when dopamine is broken down. Its measurement can help assess whether dopamine production is unusually high.
Why is creatinine included in the result?
Creatinine is used to account for how concentrated the urine is. The HVA-to-creatinine ratio helps reduce the effect of variation in urine concentration.
Does an abnormal result confirm that a tumor is present?
No. An abnormal result can suggest increased dopamine production but is not diagnostic by itself and must be interpreted with symptoms, medical history, and other tests.
  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