Serum or plasma vanillylmandelic acid (VMA) concentration
This test measures the amount of vanillylmandelic acid, a breakdown product of certain hormones produced by the adrenal glands. It helps assess conditions related to excess hormone activity.
["VMA levels can indicate adrenal gland issues, including rare tumors or overproduction of hormones like catecholamines."]
Key facts at a glance
- LOINC
- 81384-0
- Short code
- MV ann e-prime Vmax TDI
- Synonyms
- MV ann e-prime Vmax TDI
- Category
- chemistry
- Sample
- serum
- Container
- Red-top tube (SST)
- Units
- N/A
- Fasting
- false
- Population
- adult
- Sex
- all
- Age range
- 18–65 years
- Method
- us-tissue-doppler
- Specimen volume
- 5 mL
- Stability
- Room temperature: 4h, Refrigerated: 24h, Frozen: 7d
- Hemolysis max
- 500
- Lipemia max
- 1000
- Icterus max
- 500
- TAT
- 4–24 hours
- Order
- routine
Why This Test Is Done
Your doctor may order this test if you have symptoms like headaches, high blood pressure, rapid heartbeat, or unexplained sweating. It’s also used to monitor conditions like pheochromocytoma (a tumor affecting hormone production) or other adrenal-related disorders. Sometimes, it’s part of a broader evaluation for suspected neuroendocrine tumors.
What to Expect Before the Test
No special preparation is needed, but you may be asked to avoid certain foods or medications for 24 hours before testing, depending on your doctor’s instructions. If you’re taking medications, check with your provider to ensure they don’t affect results.
How the Test Is Performed
A blood sample is drawn from a vein in your arm. The sample is sent to a lab where it’s analyzed to measure vanillylmandelic acid levels. The test can also be done on urine samples (24-hour collection) for more detailed monitoring.
Possible Results and Their Meaning
Higher-than-normal VMA levels may suggest overactivity of the adrenal glands or tumors producing excess hormones. Lower-than-normal levels might indicate other hormonal imbalances or adrenal insufficiency. Your doctor will interpret results in the context of your symptoms and medical history.
Clinical interpretation
How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.
Elevated VMA levels are strongly linked to conditions like pheochromocytoma, a rare tumor that can cause severe symptoms such as blood pressure spikes, anxiety, or irregular heart rhythms. It can also help diagnose other neuroendocrine tumors or metabolic disorders affecting hormone metabolism. Regular monitoring may be needed if you have a history of adrenal or neuroendocrine issues.
Short name
VMA Level
Frequently asked questions
What causes abnormal VMA levels?
How long does it take to get results?
Can diet or medications affect VMA test results?
Sources
- 1
- 2Lab Tests OnlineSource
- 3
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.
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