Serotonin, Serum
Fasting Required: No

Specimen: Blood

Results: 2-3 Business days

Description: Serotonin is produced by cells of the APUD system, including the enterochromaffin (Kulchitsky) cells distributed through the mucosa of the gastrointestinal tract. Most serotonin in blood is usually concentrated in platelets, which release it during blood coagulation. Serotonin may be measured to confirm the diagnosis of carcinoid syndrome. The carcinoid syndrome is usually caused by primary carcinoids of the ileum, but the syndrome is occasionally caused by primary carcinoids of the stomach. Other organs give rise to carcinoids including pancreas, duodenum, bronchus, and ovary. Most patients with the carcinoid syndrome have hepatic metastases.

Patient Preparation:
Patient should avoid food high in indoles: Avocado, banana, tomato, plum, walnut, pineapple, and eggplant. Patient should also avoid tobacco, tea and coffee three days prior to specimen collection.

Methodology:
High Performance Liquid Chromatography (HPLC) • Fluorescence Detection

Reference Range(s):
56-244 ng/mL

Note: Result turn around times are an estimate and are not guaranteed. Our reference lab may need additional time due to weather, holidays, confirmation/repeat testing, or equipment maintenance.

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