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Alternative names
HIAA; 5-hydroxyindole acetic acid; Serotonin metaboliteDefinition Return to top
This is a test that measures the amount of 5-HIAA in urine.How the test is performed Return to top
The health care provider will instruct you, if necessary, to discontinue drugs that may interfere with the test. A 24-hour urine sample is needed:For a infant, thoroughly wash the area around the urethra. Open a urine collection bag (a plastic bag with an adhesive paper on one end), and place it on your infant. For boys, the entire penis can be placed in the bag and the adhesive attached to the skin. For girls, the bag is placed over the labia. Place a diaper over the infant (bag and all). The infant should be checked frequently and the bag changed after the infant has urinated into the bag. For active infants, this procedure may take a couple of attempts -- lively infants can displace the bag, causing an inability to obtain the specimen. The urine is drained into the container for transport to the laboratory.
Deliver it to the laboratory or your health care provider as soon as possible upon completion. The lab analyzes the sample for the amount of 5-HIAA.
How to prepare for the test Return to top
The health care provider will instruct you, if necessary, to discontinue drugs that may interfere with the test. Refrain from eating foods that contain interfering substances for 3 days before the test. (see Special Considerations.)
How the test will feel Return to top
The test involves only normal urination, and there is no discomfort.Why the test is performed Return to top
This test is performed to evaluate the amount of 5-HIAA excreted by the body.Normal Values Return to top
The normal range is 3 to 15 mg/24 hr (milligrams per 24 hours)What abnormal results mean Return to top
5-HIAA levels are usually measured to detect carcinoid tumors and follow the clinical course of patients, and to diagnose certain medical conditions such as systemic mastocytosis and endocrine tumors.What the risks are Return to top
There are no risks.Special considerations Return to top
Drugs that can increase 5-HIAA measurements include acetanilid, phenacetin, glyceryl guaiacolate (found in many cough syrups), methocarbamol, and reserpine.
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Page last updated: 28 October 2004 |