Serotonin, Serum
Also known as: Serotonin, 5-Hydroxytryptamine
Use
Measurement of serotonin levels in serum can aid in the diagnosis and monitoring of serotonin-secreting carcinoid tumors and other conditions affecting serotonin metabolism or regulation.
Special Instructions
Patient should avoid foods high in indoles (avocado, banana, tomato, plum, walnut, pineapple, eggplant), as well as tobacco, tea, and coffee for three days prior to collection. Spin and freeze serum below –20 °C within 2 hours after collection. Transport frozen. Room temperature and refrigerated specimens are rejected.
Limitations
Not provided.
Methodology
Other
Biomarkers
Result Turnaround Time
Not provided.
Related Documents
For more information, please review the documents below
Specimen
Serum
Volume
2–4 mL blood to yield 2 mL serum
Minimum Volume
1 mL serum
Container
Red top tube (no additive)
Collection Instructions
Patient should avoid foods high in indoles and tobacco, tea, coffee for three days prior; spin and freeze serum below –20 °C within 2 hours after collection
Patient Preparation
Avoid foods high in indoles (avocado, banana, tomato, plum, walnut, pineapple, eggplant) and avoid tobacco, tea, coffee three days prior to collection
Causes for Rejection
Received at room temperature; received refrigerated
Stability Requirements
| Temperature | Period |
|---|---|
| Room Temperature | Unacceptable |
| Refrigerated | Unacceptable |
| Frozen | Frozen – stable 42 days |