CSF homovanillic acid: an index of dopaminergic activity.

Although CSF HVA is derived from brain DA metabolism the value of its determination as an index of brain DA turnover and dopaminergic activity is limited, as other factors can affect CSF concentrations. These include the partitioning of HVA between different routes of elimination from the brain, the rates of transport from CSF to blood and from the lateral ventricle to the lumbar sac, CSF space volumes, and methodologic problems. The uses and limitations of CSF HVA determination is illustrated by findings in Parkinson's disease, Huntington's chorea, motor neuron disease, disseminated sclerosis, and hepatic coma. Finally, preliminary results on the effect on CSF HVA of the DA agonist CB 154 are described.