Wallach's Interpretation of Diagnostic Tests: Pathways to Arriving at a Clinical Diagnosis (1208 page)

   Minimum specimen volume for analysis is 0.1 mL.

Suggested Reading

Dieudonné O, Godin PA, Van-Langendonckt A, et al. Biochemical analysis of the sperm and infertility.
Clin Chem Lab Med.
2001;39:455–457.

SEROTONIN, BLOOD

   Definition

   Serotonin is an indole amine synthesized by the cells of the intestinal mucosa. It is stored in and transported by platelets but also found in many body tissues, including the CNS. Serotonin acts as a vasoconstrictor and neurotransmitter; stimulant of smooth muscle contraction, prolactin release, and GH release; and functions in hemocoagulation. Other names: 5-hydroxytryptamine.

   
Normal range:
50–200 ng/mL.

   Use

   Confirming the diagnosis of carcinoid tumors.

   Adjunct test for 5-HIAA and chromogranin-A test to follow-up patients with carcinoid tumors.

   Interpretation

Increased In

   Metastasizing abdominal carcinoid tumors

   Dumpling syndrome

   Acute intestinal obstruction

   Cystic fibrosis

   AMI and nontropical sprue