Serotonin test is done to measure the levels of serotonin in the body.
Serotonin is a chemical produced by nerve cells. Although serotonin is widely known for its importance in influencing mood, it is also important in the detection and evaluation of certain tumors called carcinoid tumors. Carcinoid tumors are a type of tumor usually found in the gastrointestinal system (most often in the appendix), and sometimes in the lungs or other sites. Carcinoid tumors are usually benign, but it is important to identify them, and once identified, they should be further evaluated because most patients develop liver metastases.
This serotonin test was designed to identify carcinoid syndrome. Symptoms of carcinoid syndrome include flushing and vasomotor instability, diarrhea, enlargement of the liver, and lesions within the heart. Some carcinomas over-produce serotonin, such as oat cell carcinomas of lung, islet cell tumors of pancreas, and medullary carcinoma of the thyroid. Carcinoid tumors also occur in multiple endocrine neoplasia (uncontrolled cell growth).
You may order serotonin test online, or for more information call LabSafe toll free at 1-888-333-LABS to speak with one of our medical counselors.
