5-HIAA Plasma Test

What is the purpose of this test?

The 5-Hydroxy-Indoleacetic Acid (5-HIAA) Plasma Test is a medical test designed to measure the concentration of 5HIAA in the blood. 5HIAA is a metabolite of serotonin, a neurotransmitter that is involved in regulating mood, appetite, and sleep. The 5HIAA test is primarily used to diagnose and monitor the progression of carcinoid tumors, a rare type of cancer that can develop in the gastrointestinal tract, lungs, and other parts of the body.

Carcinoid tumors can produce high levels of serotonin, which is converted to 5HIAA in the liver and excreted in the urine. The 5HIAA test measures the amount of 5HIAA in the blood, which is a reliable indicator of the amount of serotonin produced by the tumor. The test is usually recommended for patients who have symptoms of carcinoid tumors, such as flushing, diarrhea, and wheezing.

The 5HIAA test is also used to monitor the effectiveness of treatment for carcinoid tumors. As the tumor shrinks in response to treatment, the production of serotonin and 5HIAA decreases, which can be detected by the test. The test is also useful for detecting the recurrence of the tumor after treatment. In summary, the 5-Hydroxy-Indoleacetic Acid (5HIAA or 5-HIAA) Plasma Test is an important diagnostic tool for detecting and monitoring the progression of carcinoid tumors. By measuring the levels of 5HIAA in the blood, doctors can accurately diagnose the tumor and monitor the effectiveness of treatment, which in turn can improve the patient's quality of life and overall health.

Who would benefit from this test?

The 5-HIAA Plasma Test would be beneficial to:

• Individuals with symptoms suggestive of carcinoid syndrome, such as flushing, diarrhea, wheezing, and heart palpitations
• Individuals with a history of carcinoid tumors or other neuroendocrine tumors
• Individuals undergoing treatment for carcinoid tumors or other neuroendocrine tumors
• Individuals who have undergone surgery to remove a carcinoid tumor or other neuroendocrine tumor to monitor for recurrence
• Individuals with a family history of carcinoid tumors or other neuroendocrine tumors

When should I order a 5-HIAA Plasma Test?

A 5-HIAA Plasma Test can be ordered if you are experiencing the following symptoms:

• Flushing episodes
• Diarrhea 
• Wheezing 
• Rapid heartbeat 
• Unintentional weight loss 
• Abdominal pain 
• Persistent nausea 
• Vomiting

The test is usually ordered to help diagnose and monitor carcinoid tumors, which can produce excessive amounts of serotonin that are converted to 5HIAA and excreted in the urine.