Vanillylmandelic Acid (VMA), Homovanillic Acid (HVA), and Creatinine, 24-Hour Urine Panel
This 24-hour urine test measures VMA and HVA, which are catecholamine metabolites. Creatinine is also measured to help assess the urine collection.
["The test can help evaluate conditions that cause increased catecholamine production, especially suspected neuroblastoma."]
Key facts at a glance
- LOINC
- 48644-9
- Short code
- VMA + HVA + Creat Pnl 24h Ur
- Synonyms
- VMA + HVA + Creat Pnl 24h Ur
- Category
- kidney
- Sample
- serum
- Container
- Red-top tube (SST)
- Units
- N/A
- Fasting
- false
- Population
- adult
- Sex
- all
- Age range
- 18–65 years
- 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
What is this test?
This test measures vanillylmandelic acid (VMA) and homovanillic acid (HVA) in urine collected over 24 hours. These substances are metabolites formed when the body breaks down catecholamines such as epinephrine, norepinephrine, and dopamine.
Why might I need this test?
VMA and HVA testing is most often used to help evaluate suspected neuroblastoma or other conditions associated with increased catecholamine production. It may also be used when symptoms or other findings suggest a catecholamine-producing tumor.
How is the test performed?
You collect all urine for a full 24-hour period, usually in a labeled container provided by the laboratory. The laboratory measures VMA and HVA and may report creatinine to help show how concentrated the urine samples are and whether the collection appears adequate.
How do I prepare for the test?
Follow the laboratory's collection instructions carefully, including the starting time, the time to stop, and how to store the container. Tell the healthcare team about medicines, supplements, or foods that may affect the results, and do not stop prescribed medicines unless instructed.
Clinical interpretation
How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.
Higher-than-expected VMA or HVA levels can occur with neuroblastoma and other catecholamine-producing tumors. Results can also be affected by foods, medicines, stress, and collection problems, so an abnormal result should be interpreted by a healthcare professional and may need repeat testing or additional studies.
Short name
24-Hour Urine VMA and HVA Panel
Frequently asked questions
Why is a 24-hour urine collection needed?
Does this test diagnose neuroblastoma by itself?
Can medicines or foods change the 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