Skip to content

Urinary Vanillylmandelic Acid-to-Creatinine Ratio

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

A urine test that measures vanillylmandelic acid relative to creatinine, often used to evaluate catecholamine-producing tumors.

Quick summary

["This test can help evaluate whether a catecholamine-producing tumor may be present, but results require careful clinical interpretation."]

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

Key facts at a glance

LOINC
3124-5
Short code
VMA/Creat Ur
Synonyms
VMA/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?

Vanillylmandelic acid, or VMA, is a breakdown product of catecholamines such as adrenaline and noradrenaline. This urine test measures VMA relative to creatinine, a substance used to show how concentrated the urine sample is.

Why might I need this test?

This test may be used when a clinician is evaluating symptoms that could be related to a catecholamine-producing tumor. It is most often associated with the evaluation of neuroblastoma, a rare cancer that can develop in children.

How is the test performed?

A urine sample is collected and tested to determine the amount of VMA and creatinine. The VMA result is compared with the creatinine result to account for differences in urine concentration.

How do I prepare for the test?

Follow the collection instructions provided by your healthcare professional, including whether a single urine sample or a timed collection is required. Your clinician may advise avoiding certain foods, drinks, medicines, or supplements because they can affect VMA measurements.

Clinical interpretation

How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.

◆Associated findings1

Short name

Urine VMA-to-Creatinine Ratio

Frequently asked questions

What does VMA stand for?
VMA stands for vanillylmandelic acid, a substance formed when the body breaks down catecholamines such as adrenaline and noradrenaline.
Why is this test measured relative to creatinine?
Urine concentration can vary from sample to sample. Comparing VMA with creatinine helps account for that variation.
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 alongside your symptoms, medical history, 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