Homovanillic Acid Test - Urine

This test measures the levels of homovanillic acid in your urine.

• To screen children for catecholamine-secreting tumours like neuroblastoma
• To monitor the effectiveness of treatment for neuroblastoma and other neural crest tumours
• To detect and monitor conditions that affect catecholamine levels

You may be recommended to take the Homovanillic Acid Test if you

• are a child being screened for neuroblastoma,
• have been diagnosed with neuroblastoma or other neural crest tumours, or
• have symptoms suggestive of catecholamine-secreting tumours or conditions affecting catecholamine levels.

Elevated levels may indicate the presence of neuroblastoma, pheochromocytoma, or other neural crest tumours.

During the test, you will be asked to collect your urine over a 24-hour period. The collected urine sample will be sent to the laboratory for analysis.

• Avoid consuming bananas, tea, coffee, and cold drinks before the test.
• Inform the laboratory about any medications or supplements you are taking.
• Drink plenty of fluids and follow any other instructions provided by your doctor for accurate results.
• Inform your doctor if you have any specific requirements.

• VMA (Vanillylmandelic Acid) Test: Measures the levels of VMA in urine, another breakdown product of catecholamine neurotransmitters
• 5-HIAA (5-Hydroxyindoleacetic Acid) Test: Measures the levels of 5-HIAA in urine and helps diagnose and monitor certain tumours

HVA test or urinary homovanillic acid measurement

Neuroblastoma is a type of cancer that develops from nerve cells called neuroblasts. It commonly affects children and can occur in various parts of the body, often starting in the adrenal glands.