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Homovanillic Acid/Creatinine Ratio, Urine — Turbidimetric Measurement

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

A urine test that measures homovanillic acid relative to creatinine, helping evaluate catecholamine metabolism while accounting for urine concentration.

Quick summary

["An elevated urine HVA-to-creatinine ratio may indicate increased catecholamine activity, but results must be interpreted with other findings."]

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

Key facts at a glance

LOINC
110528-7
Short code
HVA/Creat Msmt Ur
Synonyms
HVA/Creat Msmt 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?

Homovanillic acid, or HVA, is a breakdown product of catecholamines such as dopamine, norepinephrine, and epinephrine. This test measures HVA relative to creatinine in urine; the creatinine measurement may use a turbidimetric method.

Why might I need this test?

Urine HVA testing may be used as part of an evaluation for neuroblastoma or another tumor that produces catecholamines. It is most commonly used in children, although a clinician may also request it in other situations involving symptoms of excess catecholamine production.

How is the test performed?

A urine specimen is collected and analyzed in the laboratory. The HVA result is compared with the urine creatinine level, which helps account for differences in urine concentration.

How do I prepare for the test?

Follow the collection instructions provided by the laboratory, which may request a timed or 24-hour urine collection. Tell the care team about medicines, supplements, and foods that contain caffeine, vanilla, bananas, or other substances that can affect HVA results.

Clinical interpretation

How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.

◆Associated findings1

Short name

Urine Homovanillic Acid/Creatinine Ratio

Frequently asked questions

What does homovanillic acid measure?
Homovanillic acid is a metabolite formed when the body breaks down catecholamines. Measuring it in urine can provide information about catecholamine production.
Why is the result divided by creatinine?
Urine concentration can vary widely. Comparing HVA with creatinine helps reduce the effect of changes in urine concentration and provides a more useful ratio.
Does an abnormal result mean I have cancer?
No. An elevated result can have several causes and does not diagnose cancer by itself. Your clinician will interpret it with your medical history, symptoms, 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