title: The LaBrosse VMA spot test revisited.
abstract: The LaBrosse spot test, in our experience, is not very useful as a screening procedure since the majority of specimens give an intermediate reaction, representing a heterogeneous group which may include many patients with abnormal 24-hour VMA excretion. The test is helpful only if either "positive" or "negative" in the individual patient who presents symptoms or signs compatible with abnormal catecholamine excretion. It is also of value in following patients with catecholamine-secreting tumors. The clinician should be aware of the limitations of VMA screening tests as they exist to date, and should assure himself, as well, that a specific quantitative assay is used to confirm doubtful or positive screening test results.
mesh_terms: D002395:Catecholamines / Q000378:metabolism; D002648:Child; D002675:Child, Preschool; D003124:Colorimetry; D005189:False Positive Reactions; D006801:Humans; D007223:Infant; D007231:Infant, Newborn; D008722:Methods; D009369:Neoplasms / Q000175:diagnosis / Q000652:urine; D009447:Neuroblastoma / Q000175:diagnosis / Q000652:urine; D014642:Vanilmandelic Acid / Q000652:urine*
chemical_list: D002395:Catecholamines; D014642:Vanilmandelic Acid