Serotonin (Blood)

Referring Laboratory

SCP - Endocrinology

Testing Laboratory

Department

Chemical Pathology

Delphic Registration Code (Alpha Code)

SERS

Test Code (Numeric Code)

3511

Synonyms

5 Hyroxytryptamine

This test may be vetted by the laboratory. Please include relevant clinical information on the request form to ensure appropriate tests are approved. See the 'Clinical Information' section on the testing laboratory's test guide for more information on the indications for testing.

Specimen Type

• Whole Blood

Specimen Requirements

Tube/Container Type:

Preferred

• EDTA (Lavender Cap)

Preferred Sample Volume (ml)

4

Diagnostic Use and Interpretation:
Serotonin in blood is mainly contained in platelets. Whole blood serotonin is increased in carcinoid syndrome and in some cases of paraganglioma. This test is of no use in assessment of possible serotonin syndrome or assessment of mental state/SSRI treatment.

See also 5-HIAA (5-hydroxy-indoleacetic acid) which is increased in urine in carcinoid syndrome.

Laboratory Notes:
Any queries please contact Section Leader/Technical Specialist SCP - Endocrinology.

Aliquot Instructions: Whole blood 3 mL Frozen. Aliquot Transport to CHL Frozen

Serotonin {Sendaway to CHCH - EDTA whole - Frozen - DO NOT SPIN - Place AHSND in copy to box when registering - Two photocopies one for registration one for appropriate sendaway clip, the orginal form is to be sent with sample.}

Specimen Transport Instructions for Referring Laboratories

Aliquot Instructions Whole blood 3 mL Frozen
Aliquot Transport Frozen

Contact Information