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North West London Pathology > Tests > 5-HIAA

5-HIAA

Category Biochemistry >> Metabolic
Test background

5-HIAA is a metabolite of the 5-hydroxytryptamine (5-HT) neurotransmitter (also known as serotonin). Increased 5­HT turnover is characteristic of carcinoid syndrome. Tumours may occur anywhere in the GI tract and can typically secrete 5 HT, catecholamines, prostaglandins and histamine.
Clinicial Indications

Carcinoid syndrome, characterised by symptoms of flushing and diarrhoea. Abdominal pain, bronchial asthma, heart failure and pellagra may also be present.
Reference range

<40 μmol/24 h
Sample & container required 24 hour urine collection acidified
Sample volume 24 hour urine collection
Transport storage Stable at 2-8°C however freezing pending dispatch recommended. Sample can be sent by first class post.
Turnaround time 2 weeks
Notes

Certain foodstuffs may cause false positive results. These include: avocados, bananas, plums, walnuts, pineapples, tomatoes, aubergines and cough mixtures containing glycerol guaiacolate. The patient must follow the specified diet for 72hrs with the urine being collected in the last 24hrs (patient diet sheet for 5HIAA collection is provided together with the acidified container).

Samples with pH>5.0 are unsuitable for this assay.