What's this test for?

This test is ideal if you're experiencing symptoms like unexplained high blood pressure, rapid heartbeat, severe headaches, or sudden episodes of sweating and anxiety. These can be signs of a rare tumor that overproduces stress hormones. It's also used if a family history of certain tumors or unexplained hormone-related symptoms has raised concern.

What's included in this test?

This test measures vanillylmandelic acid (VMA), a breakdown product of stress hormones called catecholamines (norepinephrine and epinephrine). Checking VMA levels helps show whether your body is producing too much of these hormones, which can happen with certain rare tumors, so it's a useful single marker for investigating specific symptoms rather than a broad panel.

What happens after I get my results?

Your results will be available in your account, with each value's normal range clearly explained so you know exactly where you stand. If your VMA level is elevated, the report will guide you on next steps, and if the number is significantly high, it's important to seek medical care right away since this can point to a hormone-producing tumor. You can download the standard lab report anytime from your account, and if you retest in the future, the trends feature lets you track changes over time.

How can I naturally support healthy catecholamine levels?

Managing stress through regular relaxation practices like deep breathing, meditation, or gentle exercise can help keep stress hormone levels balanced. Limiting caffeine, nicotine, and alcohol may also reduce unnecessary spikes in norepinephrine and epinephrine. Getting consistent, quality sleep supports your body's natural hormone regulation. These habits support overall wellness but won't resolve a tumor-related cause, so abnormal results still need attention.

When will I get my results?

Results are typically ready within about 7 days after the lab receives your 24-hour urine sample. You'll be notified as soon as your report is available in your account. Because this involves a full day of urine collection, plan ahead so the sample reaches the lab promptly for accurate timing.

Who should consider this test?

This test is a good fit for people with symptoms like sudden high blood pressure spikes, rapid heart rate, severe headaches, tremors, or excessive sweating that come and go unpredictably. It's also worth considering if you have a family history of adrenal or nerve tissue tumors. People already being monitored for a known catecholamine-related condition may also use this to track hormone levels.

What symptoms indicate I may need this test?

Watch for episodes of severe headaches, heart palpitations, excessive sweating, and sudden spikes in blood pressure, especially if they happen in unpredictable bursts. Anxiety-like attacks paired with these physical symptoms can also be a clue. If these episodes are frequent or severe, this test can help identify whether a hormone-producing tumor might be the cause.

What does a high VMA result mean?

A high VMA level suggests your body is breaking down larger-than-normal amounts of stress hormones, which can happen with tumors like pheochromocytoma or neuroblastoma. It can also be affected by certain medications, such as clonidine or MAO inhibitors, so results should be considered alongside anything you're currently taking. Because elevated results can signal a serious condition, prompt follow-up and, if levels are very high, urgent medical care is recommended.

What causes an abnormal VMA result?

Abnormal VMA levels are most often linked to catecholamine-secreting tumors such as pheochromocytoma, neuroblastoma, or ganglioneuroma. Certain medications, including clonidine, L-dopa, methocarbamol, MAO inhibitors, reserpine, and salicylates, can also interfere with results and cause false readings. Intense physical or emotional stress right before or during the collection period can sometimes raise levels as well.

How often should I retest?

If your first result comes back normal and you have no ongoing symptoms, retesting usually isn't necessary unless new symptoms appear. If you're being monitored for a known condition or had a borderline result, periodic retesting every few months can help track any changes. Use the trends feature in your account to compare results over time and spot patterns.

Getting your blood test with us is easy, private & backed by the power of science.Long story short: In the test options, use the filters or search box to narrow your choices and find the test you want. If you need a hand navigating through options, text our super friendly support team at 754-799-7833, and we'll provide tailored suggestions to help you find the ideal test. Once your order is placed, we’ll create your doctor’s lab order remotely, without any need for you to make a trip to a doctor in person or to talk to the doctor. Expect to receive your doctor’s lab order right in your inbox. It will also be in your patient portal if you need to find it later. We’ll also include instructions regarding fasting and other requirements for your test. Your patient portal will be auto-created hassle-free during checkout. If this is your first time ordering, you'll be prompted to create a password for instant login access to your patient portal. It's a quick way to conveniently access your orders and results whenever you want. When you’re ready, visit one of our 4,000 locations. Just bring your ID – no printing or faxing of your lab order is needed, as your order and details will already be in the lab system. Note that most lab locations don’t accept walk-ins, so it’s best to book an appointment in advance. Don’t worry – we’ll provide detailed instructions along the way. You’ll get your results via email & SMS and dive into understanding your body better. Yup, that easy! If you have any questions, please text us at 754-799-7833 or email support@privatemdlabs.com and we'll gladly help you.

How do I know which test to get?

In the test options, find the test you want. If you’re not sure which test to get, we can lend a hand in finding the right option. Just text or call us at 754-799-7833, email us at support@privatemdlabs.com, and we'll gladly help you. We've got your back and reply quickly.

When will my lab results be available?

Most test results will be available within 1–3 business days. Once they're ready, we'll send an email and text message to let you know. After your blood draw, just hang tight and don't worry – we'll keep you updated and in the loop! If you have any further questions, please text us at 754-799-7833 or email support@privatemdlabs.com, and we'll gladly help you.

Is it possible to make changes to my lab order if I made a mistake with the name, date of birth, or any other details?

Absolutely! We totally understand that errors can happen. No worries, we're here to help you. Just reach out to us via text at 754-799-7833 or shoot us an email at support@privatemdlabs.com. Remember to include your order number and let us know the correct information you’d like to update. Our awesome team will jump right in and make sure everything is sorted out and accurate for you. There are no changes necessary if your address is wrong on the requisition though. We don’t mail anything out. Our lab requires an address to be listed to generate an order.

Do you accept health insurance?

Only HSA & FSA is accepted. Our services are strictly self-pay and cannot be submitted to your health insurance provider except for Health Savings Accounts or Flexible Savings Accounts. This policy applies to all insurance companies, including federal health insurance programs like Medicare. If you have any questions, please text us at 754-799-7833 or email support@privatemdlabs.com.

Can I cancel my order?

Yes. We get it – sometimes your needs change. As long as your samples haven’t been collected yet, we’re happy to help you cancel your order. If you have any further questions, please text us at 754-799-7833 or email support@privatemdlabs.com. You can read more about our cancellation policy here.

How can I find a lab location near me?

During the ordering process, you’ll be able to select a specific lab near you, with no strings attached! You can switch it up later easily and visit any of our authorized locations as long as it’s the same lab company you selected your test for (Quest Diagnostics or Labcorp). Before you proceed with your order, feel free to browse through all our lab locations here. This will give you the peace of mind of knowing that there's a lab nearby your home, office or your favorite gym. If you have any questions, please text us at 754-799-7833 or email support@privatemdlabs.com and we'll gladly help you.

VMA 24-Hour Urine Test - Adrenal Tumor Screening

Getting your blood test with us is easy, private & backed by the power of science.

Long story short:

In the test options, use the filters or search box to narrow your choices and find the test you want.
If you need a hand navigating through options, text our super friendly support team at 754-799-7833, and we'll provide tailored suggestions to help you find the ideal test.
Once your order is placed, we’ll create your doctor’s lab order remotely, without any need for you to make a trip to a doctor in person or to talk to the doctor. Expect to receive your doctor’s lab order right in your inbox. It will also be in your patient portal if you need to find it later. We’ll also include instructions regarding fasting and other requirements for your test. Your patient portal will be auto-created hassle-free during checkout.
If this is your first time ordering, you'll be prompted to create a password for instant login access to your patient portal. It's a quick way to conveniently access your orders and results whenever you want.
When you’re ready, visit one of our 4,000 locations. Just bring your ID – no printing or faxing of your lab order is needed, as your order and details will already be in the lab system.
Note that most lab locations don’t accept walk-ins, so it’s best to book an appointment in advance. Don’t worry – we’ll provide detailed instructions along the way.
You’ll get your results via email & SMS and dive into understanding your body better. Yup, that easy!

754-799-7833

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