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Homovanillic Acid and Creatinine, Urine (HVA/Creatinine Ratio)

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

Measures homovanillic acid, a catecholamine breakdown product, in urine along with creatinine to help evaluate increased catecholamine production.

Quick summary

["This urine test can help identify conditions that cause excess catecholamine production, particularly in children."]

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

Key facts at a glance

LOINC
44908-2
Short code
HVA & Creat Ur-Imp
Synonyms
HVA & Creat Ur-Imp
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) and creatinine in urine. HVA is a breakdown product of catecholamines, and the HVA-to-creatinine ratio can account for differences in urine concentration.

Why might I need this test?

This test is most often used to evaluate suspected neuroblastoma or another condition associated with increased catecholamine production. It may also be used to monitor certain rare disorders that affect catecholamine metabolism.

How is the test performed?

A urine sample is analyzed in a laboratory for HVA and creatinine. Depending on the laboratory's instructions, this may be a spot urine sample or urine collected over 24 hours.

How do I prepare for the test?

Follow the collection instructions provided by the laboratory. If a 24-hour collection is required, record the start and end times and collect all urine during that period; medication and dietary restrictions should be discussed with the healthcare professional ordering the test.

Clinical interpretation

How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.

An elevated urine HVA level or HVA-to-creatinine ratio may indicate increased catecholamine production, as can occur with neuroblastoma or certain inherited metabolic disorders. Results can also be affected by urine collection technique, kidney function, medications, and foods containing catecholamines, so abnormalities should be interpreted with the full clinical context and confirmed when appropriate.

Short name

Urine HVA and creatinine

Frequently asked questions

What is homovanillic acid?
Homovanillic acid, or HVA, is a breakdown product formed when the body metabolizes catecholamines such as adrenaline and dopamine.
Why is creatinine measured with HVA?
Creatinine reflects urine concentration, so comparing HVA with creatinine helps determine whether the amount of HVA is higher than expected for the amount of urine collected.
Does this test require a 24-hour urine collection?
It depends on the laboratory and the reason for testing. Some results use a spot urine sample, while others use a 24-hour collection; follow the specific collection instructions you are given.
  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