Elevated values of VMA along with other catecholamine metabolites are suggestive of catecholamine secreting tumor like Neuroblastoma, Pheochromocytoma and other Neural crest tumors. VMA levels may also be useful in monitoring patients who are also treated. Elevated levels are suggestive of Pheochromocytoma but not diagnostic.

50 mL (10 mL min.) aliquot of 24 hour urine. Collect urine with appropriate volume of 50% HCl to maintain pH between 1-2. Do not use concentrated HCl. Record 24 hour volume on test request form and urine container. Ship refrigerated or frozen. Patient should strictly avoid Theophylline, chocolate, vanilla, banana, alcoholic beverages, tea coffee, tobacco and strenuous exercise at least 72 hrs before and during specimen collection.

HPLC-EC

Sample Wed Sat by 9 am; Report 2 days

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Patient should strictly avoid Theophylline, chocolate, vanilla, banana, alcoholic beverages, tea coffee, tobacco and strenuous exercise at least 72 hrs before and during specimen collection.