In two centres urinary excretion of HMMA was measured in a total of 359 children, aged from birth to 17 years, who were suspected of having a neuroblastoma; the diagnosis was subsequently confirmed in 39. Measurements were made on 24 h urine samples in 246 children, and on random samples in a further 113.
The urinary excretion of HMMA relative to creatinine declined progressively with increasing age. After the age of four years the rate of decline was such that some age groups could be combined for statistical analysis. The range of values for each group was similar whether 24 h or random urine collections were used. It is concluded that the latter are adequate for the initial assessment of HMMA excretion.
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