Eurofins Biomnis code

SEROT

Synonyms

• Endocrine tumors
• Endocrinology
• Enteramin
• HT
• Hydroxytryptamine - whole blood
• OH-tryptamine (5-) - whole blood
• Thrombocystin
• Thrombotonin
• 3- (B-aminoethyl) -5-hydroxyindol
• 5-HT
• 5-Hydroxytryptamine
• 5-OHT - whole blood

Specialty

Biochemistry

Clinical significance

The serotonin assay is basically used to assist with screening and monitoring of TNEC (carcinoid neuroendocrine tumours). The elevation in this case may can be up to 100 times the normal value and cause so-called carcinoid syndrome (diarrhoea, hot flushes, etc.). Serotonin alone does not allow diagnosis of neuroendocrine tumours (this relies on the anatomical pathology and imaging) and should ideally be supplemented with a 5HIA urine assay as well as a serum chromogranin A assay. In the literature, raised serotonin levels have also been described in the context of migraines and certain types of heart disease. Conversely, reduction of serotonin can be found in fibromyalgia, kidney failure and in patients treated with serotonin reuptake inhibitor type antidepressants.

Preanalytics

• 2 x 2 mL (IMPERATIF) :
• Heparinised whole blood (no glass tubes) (prohibit use of tubes with separator)
•   FROZEN
• 1 hour

• A tube specifically for this analysis : Yes

Further information

Sample to be frozen within 1 hour. Home sampling is not advisable.
DIET: in the 48 hours preceding the sample, avoid foods or drinks rich in tryptophan (essential amino acid constituting serotonin): oily fish, poultry livers, brown rice, dairy products, bananas, chocolate / cocoa, dried fruits (nuts , almond, cashew nuts, dates), mango, avocado, tomato, plum, kiwi, pineapple, shellfish, beans and legumes, pumpkin seed
Note that taking antidepressants such as IRRS (serotonin reuptake inhibitors) may decrease the basal level of serotonin.
2 specific aliquots for this analysis

Methodology

UPLC

Turnaround time

4 days