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Vanillate-to-Creatinine Mass Ratio, Urine and Stool

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

Measures the relative amount of vanillate to creatinine in urine and/or stool. Creatinine helps account for differences in sample concentration.

Quick summary

["This test measures vanillate relative to creatinine to help evaluate catecholamine-related metabolism."]

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

Key facts at a glance

LOINC
48158-0
Short code
Vanillate/Creat Ur-sRto
Synonyms
Vanillate/Creat 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?

This test measures vanillate, a compound related to catecholamine metabolism, compared with creatinine in urine or stool. Creatinine is used as a reference measurement to help account for variations in how concentrated a sample is.

Why might I need this test?

A clinician may order this test when symptoms suggest excess catecholamine activity, such as episodes of headache, sweating, rapid heartbeat, or high blood pressure. It may also be used in the evaluation of certain rare tumors or metabolic conditions.

How is the test performed?

You provide a urine or stool sample as directed by the laboratory. The laboratory measures vanillate and creatinine and may report their ratio. Some urine tests require collection over a specified period, such as 24 hours.

How do I prepare for the test?

Follow the laboratory's collection instructions exactly, including any timed or complete collection. Do not change your diet, medications, or supplement use unless your clinician specifically instructs you to do so.

Clinical interpretation

How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.

◆Associated findings1

Short name

Vanillate/Creatinine Ratio

Frequently asked questions

What does an elevated vanillate-to-creatinine ratio mean?
It may indicate increased vanillate relative to creatinine, which can occur with excess catecholamine production. Results must be interpreted by a clinician because diet, medications, sample collection, and other conditions can affect them.
Does this test diagnose a tumor by itself?
No. An abnormal result can prompt additional evaluation, but imaging, repeat testing, and other laboratory or clinical findings may be needed to establish a diagnosis.
Why is creatinine included in the result?
Creatinine provides a way to compare vanillate with the concentration of the sample. This is especially helpful when urine concentration varies substantially between collections.
  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