What Causes Elevated HVA Levels?

Posted on Sat, 6 Feb 2016

Medically reviewed by Ask A Doctor - 24x7 Medical Review Team

Sat, 6 Feb 2016 Answered on

Wed, 6 Apr 2016 Last reviewed on

Question : HVA falling from five times normal to normal over 2014-15. Over same period: moderate tyrosine accumulation (insufficiency of B6 and zinc, probably bacteria-related problem with BH4), VMA normal, no changes in dopaminergic drugs, no evidence of tumors, MAOB mutation. Why HVA so high before, and dropping to normal now?

Answered by Dr. Dr. Erion Spaho (1 hour later)

Brief Answer:
HVA may be increased by several factors.

Detailed Answer:
Hello and thanks for using HCM.

I have read your query and understand your concerns.

Elevated values of HVA ( homovalinic acid ) are related to several conditions and factors besides tumors ( neuroblastoma, phechromocytoma ), or MAO-B gene mutation.

Since tumors and mutations are excluded, other factors that increase HVA levels include hypertension, anxiety, some food (banana eg.), and drugs interaction (including over the counter drugs).

Rasagiline (Azilect), as you may know, is a MAO-B inhibitor, so, it actually decreases the HVA levels by decreasing Dopamine breakdown.

It affects the tyrosine levels by affecting the function of tyrosine hydroxylase.

Rasagiline metabolites after breakdown is not an amphetamine derivative, but this doesn't affect the HVA levels.

In conclusion, besides tumors or gene mutations, increased levels of HVA could be related to several other factors, Azilect actually decreases HVA levels by decreasing Dopamine breakdown.

Hope you found the answer helpful.

Let me know if I can assist you further.

Greetings.

Above answer was peer-reviewed by : Dr. Arnab Banerjee