Serotonin, Serum
Also known as: SEROT-SER
Use
This test is used to measure serotonin levels in the serum and is useful in the diagnosis of conditions like carcinoid tumors, where elevated serotonin levels may be observed. It is also pertinent in evaluating other conditions that may influence serotonin levels such as acute intestinal obstruction, acute myocardial infarction, cystic fibrosis, dumping syndromes, and nontropical sprue. Metastasizing abdominal carcinoid tumors typically exhibit serotonin concentrations greater than 400 ng/mL.
Special Instructions
Patients should abstain from medications for 72 hours prior to collection as certain drugs may affect serotonin concentrations, including lithium, MAO inhibitors, methyldopa, morphine, and reserpine. Ensure serum specimens are separated from cells within one hour of collection, and transfer the serum to an ARUP Standard Transport Tube.
Limitations
This test was developed and its performance characteristics determined by ARUP Laboratories and has not been cleared or approved by the US Food and Drug Administration. The test is performed in a CLIA certified laboratory and is intended for clinical use. This test should not be used as the sole basis for patient management decisions. Most blood serotonin is found in platelets; whole blood preserved with ascorbic acid is preferred for values most representative of blood concentrations.
New York Approved
Methodology
Automated Analyzer (Clinical Chemistry)
Biomarkers
LOINC Codes
- 27057-9
Result Turnaround Time
1-5 days
Related Documents
For more information, please review the documents below
Specimen
Serum
Volume
0.5 mL
Minimum Volume
0.2 mL
Container
ARUP Standard Transport Tube
Collection Instructions
Separate from cells within 1 hour of collection.
Patient Preparation
Abstain from medications for 72 hours prior to collection.
Storage Instructions
Frozen. Separate specimens must be submitted when multiple tests are ordered.
Causes for Rejection
Specimens other than serum. Non-frozen specimens.
Stability Requirements
| Temperature | Period |
|---|---|
| Room Temperature | Unacceptable |
| Refrigerated | 24 hours |
| Frozen | 1 month |