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Homovanillic Acid/Creatinine Ratio, Urine

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

A urine test that measures homovanillic acid relative to creatinine, helping assess dopamine metabolism and evaluate suspected catecholamine-producing tumors.

Quick summary

["This urine ratio can help evaluate suspected catecholamine-producing tumors, 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
11146-8
Short code
HVA/Creat Ur
Synonyms
HVA/Creat 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), a breakdown product of dopamine, in urine. The HVA result is compared with the urine creatinine level to form a ratio that is less affected by how concentrated or dilute the urine is.

Why might I need this test?

The test may be used to help evaluate a suspected neuroblastoma or another tumor that produces catecholamines. It may also be used to monitor treatment or recurrence of certain neuroendocrine tumors.

How is the test performed?

A urine sample is collected and tested for HVA and creatinine. The laboratory then compares the two measurements to calculate the HVA-to-creatinine ratio. Your clinician will explain whether a single urine sample or a timed collection is required.

How do I prepare for the test?

Special preparation is usually not required unless your clinician gives specific instructions. Follow the urine-collection directions exactly, including any timed collection period, and tell the laboratory about medicines or unusual vitamin supplements you have recently taken.

Clinical interpretation

How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.

◆Associated findings1

Short name

Urine HVA-to-creatinine ratio

Frequently asked questions

What does HVA stand for?
HVA stands for homovanillic acid. It is a breakdown product of dopamine that can be measured in urine.
Why is creatinine included in the result?
Creatinine is used to account for differences in urine concentration. Comparing HVA with creatinine provides a more consistent measure than looking at HVA alone.
Does an abnormal result mean I have cancer?
No. An abnormal result can have several causes and does not prove that cancer is present. 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