WHAT IS THIS TEST USED FOR?
5-SEROTONIN is a chemical substance that transmits messages between the nerve cells. It is mainly produced by the nervous system, special cells in the lungs and gastrointestinal tract also produces serotonin. Small amounts of5-HIAA is found in the urine. Large quantities of serotonin and 5-HIAA may be produced by some carcinoid tumors.
WHAT DOES THE TEST MEASURE?
This test measures the amount of serotonin and 5-hydroxyindolacetic acid in the urine.
Q1. How is the test performed?
A 24- hour urine sample is required. For the performance of the 5-hydroxyindolecetic acid test, a collection of all urine over 24 hours is required. The instructions and container will be given by the laboratory.
Q2. Why a 24-hour urine sample is required?
A 24-hour urine sample is preferred over a normal urine sample because the level of the metabolite can vary during the day.
Q3. Which foods are avoided before the test?
The foods that contain serotonin should be avoided for at least 24 hours before the test.
FOODS TO AVOID:
- Bananas
- Pineapples
- Tomatoes
- Avocados
- Plums
- Nuts (especially walnuts)
Q4.What are carcinoid tumors?
Slow growing mass that can develop in the mucous membrane of lungs and gastrointestinal tract.
INTERPRETATION OF THE RESULT:
This test is suggestive not a diagnostic test. To diagnose the condition, the tumor must be located, biopsied and examined by the pathologist.
If a patient shows symptoms of carcinoid tumor and high amounts of 5-HIAA in the urine, then this test is the suggestive test of a carcinoid tumor.
