5-Hydroxyindoleacetic acid (5-HIAA), 24 Hours Urine
About 5-HIAA, 24 Hours Urine test
5-Hydroxyindoleacetic acid (5-HIAA), 24 Hours Urine test is used to measure the amount of 5-HIAA in the urine sample.
The liver breaks down serotonin, a hormone that helps transmit nerve impulses and affects sleep and mood. As a result of serotonin breakdown, a waste product called 5-HIAA is produced. Normally, your body eliminates this waste through urine. However, if you have a carcinoid tumor that secretes serotonin, your urine may contain higher levels of 5-HIAA. This is because the increased serotonin leads to more breakdown and excretion of 5-HIAA.
Thus, monitoring the amount of 5-HIAA in your urine over a full day provides a more accurate reflection of serotonin production than measuring blood levels at a specific time.
This test is also known as
5-hydroxyindoleacetic acid urine, HIAA
Symptoms of carcinoid tumors
Diarrhea
Abdominal cramps
Nausea and vomiting
Low blood pressure
Unexplained weight loss
Irregular heartbeat
Watery eyes
Wheezing
Sexual dysfunction in men
Foods that might affect the test results
Consuming specific foods that contain serotonin has the potential to increase levels of 5-HIAA. Some examples of these foods are
Bananas
Pineapple
Kiwi
Plums
Tomatoes
Brinjal
Avocados
Certain nuts, including walnuts and pecans
Test preparation
Ensure your doctor is aware of what prescription drugs, over-the-counter medicines, or dietary supplements you are taking. Avoid consuming certain foods such as fruits, fermented foods, dairy products etc. three days prior undertaking the test. It is advisable to refrain from consuming caffeinated drinks before and during the collection period as they possess diuretic properties, leading to increased urine production. Ask your doctor for details about pre-test preparations, and make sure to follow instructions closely
Interpretation of the Test Results
Test results can differ based on factors such as your age, gender, health history, and other variables.
Typically, normal results range from 2 to 9 milligrams (mg) of 5-HIAA over a 24-hour period. Women generally tend to have lower levels compared to men.
Deviation from normal levels indicates the following:
· Elevated levels of 5-HIAA could indicate the presence of carcinoid tumors, non-carcinoid tumors, cystic fibrosis, or malabsorption.
Lower levels of 5-HIAA may be due to depression or migraines
FAQs
How is the sample collected for the 5-HIAA, 24 Hours Urine test ?
In order to provide a urine sample for this test, you will need to collect all of your urine over a 24-hour period. Begin by emptying your bladder fully in the morning without collecting it. Remember to take note of the time. From then on, collect your urine each time you use the bathroom throughout the day. Make sure to store the sample in a cool and dark place while you're in the process of collecting it
What are the risks involved in the 5-HIAA, 24 Hours Urine test sample collection?
Urine sample collection for 5-HIAA, 24 Hours Urine test does not pose any risks
Can medications interfere with the 5-HIAA, 24 Hours Urine test results?
Certain medications like muscle relaxants, antidepressants, antihistamines etc. can potentially interfere with your test results. Therefore, it is important to inform your healthcare provider about all the medications you are taking before undergoing the test
Can the 5-HIAA urine test be used to monitor treatment effectiveness?
Yes, this test can be used to track the progress of treatment in individuals with carcinoid tumors, enabling adjustments to therapy as required
Are some individuals at a higher risk for developing a carcinoid tumor?
Carcinoid tumors can affect individuals of any age, although they are typically diagnosed in the early 60s. If someone has a family history of multiple endocrine neoplasia (MEN1), a genetic condition that raises the likelihood of developing tumors in the endocrine system glands, their risk of developing a carcinoid tumor may be higher
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