Vanillylmandelic Acid (VMA) and Homovanillic Acid (HVA), Urine

Casandra

Casandra Test Code AR21514Version 1 (DRAFT)

Performing Lab

Lab ARUP LaboratoriesLab Test ID 0080470CPT Codes 83150, 84585

Vanillylmandelic Acid (VMA) and Homovanillic Acid (HVA), Urine

Also known as: VH

Clinical Use

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Use

This test is primarily used for the initial diagnosis and monitoring of neuroblastoma by measuring the levels of vanillylmandelic acid (VMA) and homovanillic acid (HVA) in urine. These metabolites are markers of catecholamine metabolism, and their elevated levels can be indicative of neuroendocrine tumors such as neuroblastoma. Accurate measurement of these metabolites assists in monitoring disease progression and response to treatment. Multiple factors such as medications, stress, and diet can affect the levels of VMA and HVA, hence careful preparation and collection are essential for reliable results.

Special Instructions

Not provided.

Limitations

This laboratory-developed test has not been cleared or approved by the US FDA and is performed in a CLIA-certified laboratory for clinical purposes. It cannot provide a complete picture of catecholamine metabolism on its own. Individual variations such as stress, physical exertion, and certain medications can cause elevations in VMA and HVA levels, which might not indicate a pathological condition. Interfering substances include a wide variety of over-the-counter medications, supplements, or herbal products, which may lead to false positive or negative results.

Test Details

New York Approved