Serotonin, Urine 24h

The measurement of serotonin in the urine is mainly used to diagnose certain carcinoid tumors and to monitor their treatment.

More information

Serotonin, or 5-hydroxytryptamine, is an indoleamine synthesized from the essential amino acid L-tryptophan by intestinal mucosa cells. Serotonin is stored in platelets but is also found in many body tissues, including the central nervous system and the gastrointestinal tract. Serotonin mediates cardiovascular integrity, neurotransmission, smooth muscle contraction (gastrointestinal motility), the release of prolactin and growth hormone, and functions in blood clotting. This wide range of actions occurs due to serotonin receptors throughout the body.

Serotonin measurement is most often used to confirm the diagnosis of carcinoid tumors.

Possible Interpretations of Pathological Values
 

• Increase: Carcinoid syndrome, cystic fibrosis, Duchenne muscular dystrophy, endocarditis, essential hypertension, Huntington's disease, metastases, migraine, myocardial infarction, celiac disease, lung cancer (causing ectopic production), pain (chronic), pancreatic islet cell cancer (causing ectopic production), primary pulmonary hypertension, schizophrenia, medullary thyroid cancer (causing ectopic production). Medications: Imipramine, methyldopa, monoamine oxidase inhibitors (MAOIs), reserpine, selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs) (citalopram, desmethyl citalopram, fluoxetine, milnacipran, norfluoxetine, paroxetine, sertraline, venlafaxine), tramadol (reduces serotonin reuptake)
• Decrease: Depression, Down syndrome, Parkinson's disease, phenylketonuria, renal failure, teratomas (benign cystic)

Important Note

Laboratory test results are the most critical parameter for diagnosing and monitoring all pathological conditions. Between 70 to 80% of diagnostic decisions are based on laboratory tests. Correctly interpreting laboratory results allows a doctor to distinguish "healthy" from "diseased."

Laboratory test results should not be interpreted from the numerical result of a single analysis. Test results should be analyzed based on each case and family history, clinical findings, and the results of other laboratory tests and information. Your physician should explain the importance of your test results.

At Diagnostiki Athinon, we answer any questions you may have about the test you perform in our laboratory and contact your doctor to ensure you receive the best possible medical care.

Measurement of serotonin in the urine is performed by taking a urine sample, which can be done :

• By taking the collection container from Diagnostiki Athinon. You should deliver the container to the laboratory. Book your appointment in real-time and purchase the test online
• By sending the necessary collection container to your home via courier. The courier also returns the container to the laboratory. Purchase the test online

Preparation

• For 48 hours before and during urine collection, subjects should not eat avocados, bananas, cantaloupe, plums, grapefruit, kiwi, pineapple, eggplant, tomatoes, pecans, and walnuts, which are high in serotonin.
• The examinee should not take medications that may increase the concentration of serotonin in the urine, including lithium, monoamine oxidase inhibitors, methyldopa, morphine, and reserpine. Subjects should also not take selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs) that may decrease serotonin levels. Discontinuation of medications should always be done in consultation with the attending physician.
• The examinee should avoid smoking during the urine collection period.