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Homovanillic Acid/Creatinine Ratio, 24-Hour Urine

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

Measures the amount of homovanillic acid relative to creatinine in urine collected over 24 hours, often used to evaluate dopamine metabolism.

Quick summary

This urine test can help identify conditions that cause increased dopamine production, particularly neuroblastoma in children.

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

Key facts at a glance

LOINC
25931-7
Short code
HVA/Creat 24h Ur-sRto
Synonyms
HVA/Creat 24h Ur-sRto
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?

Homovanillic acid, or HVA, is a breakdown product of dopamine. This test measures HVA relative to creatinine in urine collected for 24 hours; the ratio helps account for differences in urine concentration.

Why might I need this test?

The test is most often used when evaluating a child for neuroblastoma or another tumor that produces dopamine-related chemicals. It may also be used to follow certain tumor treatment or recurrence.

How is the test performed?

You collect all urine for a full 24-hour period in the container provided by the laboratory. The laboratory measures HVA and creatinine and calculates their ratio.

How do I prepare for the test?

Follow the laboratory's collection instructions, including recording the start and finish times and storing urine as directed. Ask your care team whether any diet or medication restrictions are needed, and do not stop medicines without medical advice.

Clinical interpretation

How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.

An elevated HVA/creatinine ratio may occur with catecholamine-producing tumors, particularly neuroblastoma. Results can also be affected by illness, stress, diet, medications, and urine collection or kidney function, so the result should be interpreted by a clinician with the child's age and medical history.

Short name

24-Hour Urine HVA/Creatinine Ratio

Frequently asked questions

What does HVA stand for?
HVA stands for homovanillic acid, a breakdown product of the neurotransmitter dopamine.
Why is creatinine included in the result?
Creatinine helps show how concentrated the urine is. Comparing HVA with creatinine reduces the effect of variations in urine concentration.
How is a 24-hour urine sample collected?
Collect all urine during the specified 24-hour period, record the start and finish times, and keep the container closed and stored as instructed. If any urine is missed, ask the laboratory how to proceed.
  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