SEROTONIN (5-HT) in Gopanapalli, Hyderabad

Serotonin (5-HT) Test: Price, Purpose, Procedure, and Report Interpretation

Test Overview

The Serotonin (5-HT) Test is a specialised blood test used to measure the level of serotonin — a vital neurotransmitter and hormone, in the body. Serotonin plays a crucial role in regulating mood, sleep, digestion, and several other physiological functions. Abnormal levels of serotonin may indicate underlying conditions such as carcinoid syndrome, certain tumours, or neuropsychiatric disorders. This test helps doctors evaluate serotonin-producing cells, primarily located in the gastrointestinal tract, and detect excess serotonin release caused by carcinoid tumours. It also assists in understanding disorders linked to serotonin deficiency, such as depression, anxiety, or sleep disturbances. If you are looking for a Serotonin (5-HT) Test near me, Apollo 24|7 offers reliable home sample collection, NABL-certified laboratories, and digital report delivery across India. This guide explains everything you need to know about the Serotonin (5-HT) Test, including its price, purpose, procedure, preparation, normal range, and report interpretation.

What is the Serotonin (5-HT) Test?

The Serotonin (5-HT) Test measures the amount of serotonin in your blood or urine, depending on the clinical requirement. Serotonin (5-hydroxytryptamine or 5-HT) is a biochemical messenger derived from the amino acid tryptophan. It is produced mainly in the intestines and stored in platelets, with smaller quantities present in the brain. This test is primarily used for diagnosing carcinoid tumours,  rare neuroendocrine tumours that secrete excessive serotonin and other substances. The test may also provide indirect insight into mental health and gastrointestinal health, as serotonin levels affect mood and bowel function.

What is the Purpose of the Serotonin (5-HT) Test?

Doctors recommend the Serotonin (5-HT) Test for several diagnostic and monitoring purposes, including:

1. Detecting Carcinoid Tumours

Carcinoid tumours commonly develop in the digestive tract or lungs and can release large amounts of serotonin into the bloodstream. This test helps detect abnormal serotonin levels caused by such tumours.

2. Evaluating Carcinoid Syndrome Symptoms

Patients showing symptoms like flushing, diarrhoea, wheezing, abdominal pain, or rapid heart rate may be advised to undergo this test to confirm or rule out carcinoid syndrome.

3. Assessing Serotonin Metabolism

Serotonin imbalance can affect mood, appetite, sleep, and digestion. Measuring its level helps doctors understand serotonin-related metabolic changes.

4. Monitoring Treatment Progress

The test is also used to monitor patients receiving treatment for carcinoid tumours or serotonin-secreting cancers to track how well therapy is working.

5. Supporting Mental Health Evaluation

Although not diagnostic for psychiatric conditions, abnormal serotonin levels may guide further assessment for depression, anxiety, or mood disorders.

When is the Serotonin (5-HT) Test Recommended?

Your doctor may recommend this test if you exhibit symptoms or clinical signs that suggest excess serotonin production or related disorders, such as:

• Persistent diarrhoea without infection
• Skin flushing or redness (especially on the face and neck)
• Wheezing or difficulty breathing
• Abdominal cramps and pain
• Heart palpitations
• Unexplained weight loss
• Mood swings, irritability, or fatigue

The test may also be ordered in follow-up with a 24-hour urine 5-HIAA test, which measures serotonin’s main metabolite (5-hydroxyindoleacetic acid).

Serotonin (5-HT) Test Price

The cost of the Serotonin (5-HT) Test can vary depending on multiple factors, including:

• Location: Prices may differ between cities and regions based on laboratory facilities.
• Technology Used: Advanced chromatographic methods like HPLC (High-Performance Liquid Chromatography) or LC-MS/MS (Liquid Chromatography–Mass Spectrometry) ensure higher accuracy.
• Accreditation: NABL or CAP-accredited labs may charge slightly more due to stringent quality standards.
• Sample Type: Whether the test uses blood or urine (plasma or platelet-rich samples).
• Additional Panels: Sometimes combined with other hormone or tumour marker panels for comprehensive analysis.

To check the latest Serotonin (5-HT) Test price for your area, visit the Apollo 24|7 website or app before booking.

Preparation Before the Serotonin (5-HT) Test

Proper preparation ensures accurate test results. Follow your doctor’s instructions carefully:

1. Dietary Restrictions (3 Days Prior)

Avoid foods that can increase serotonin levels, including:

• Bananas
• Avocados
• Pineapples
• Plums
• Tomatoes
• Walnuts
• Eggplant

2. Medication Guidelines

Inform your doctor about all medications or supplements you take. Some drugs can alter serotonin levels, such as:

• Antidepressants (SSRIs, MAOIs, TCAs)
• Painkillers (e.g., Tramadol)
• Antiemetics (e.g., Metoclopramide)
• Blood pressure medicines (e.g., Reserpine)

Your doctor may ask you to temporarily stop or adjust certain medications before testing.

3. Fasting Requirements

Fasting is generally not required, but follow your doctor’s specific instructions if part of a larger hormonal or metabolic panel.

How is the Serotonin (5-HT) Test Performed?

The Serotonin (5-HT) Test can be conducted using either a blood sample or a 24-hour urine sample, depending on the doctor’s recommendation and the clinical requirement. Both methods are designed to accurately measure serotonin levels and assess the body’s neurotransmitter balance. Here’s how each procedure is typically carried out:

A. Blood Test Procedure

1. A healthcare professional collects a blood sample from a vein, typically from your arm.
2. The sample is placed in a chilled, anticoagulant-treated tube to preserve serotonin stability.
3. It is then analysed using chromatography or mass spectrometry to determine the exact serotonin concentration.

B. Urine Test Procedure

1. For some patients, a 24-hour urine sample may be collected.
2. The sample is stored in a container with acid preservative to prevent degradation.
3. The lab measures serotonin or its metabolite (5-HIAA) to evaluate secretion levels.

Understanding the Serotonin (5-HT) Test Report

The test results are presented in nanograms per millilitre (ng/mL) for blood samples or micrograms per 24 hours (µg/24 hr) for urine samples.

1. High Serotonin Levels May Indicate:

• Carcinoid tumour (GI tract, lungs, or pancreas)
• Metastatic neuroendocrine tumour
• Intestinal obstruction or inflammatory condition
• Serotonin syndrome (from excessive serotonergic medication use)

2. Low Serotonin Levels May Indicate:

• Depression or mood disorders
• Anxiety disorders
• Malabsorption or nutritional deficiency (tryptophan)
• Certain neurodegenerative conditions

Note: Reference ranges may vary slightly between laboratories and depend on sample type and testing method. Always consult your doctor for accurate result interpretation.

Clinical Importance of the Serotonin (5-HT) Test

The Serotonin (5-HT) Test plays a crucial role in diagnosing and managing various health conditions linked to serotonin imbalance. As serotonin influences mood, digestion, and tumour activity, measuring its levels provides valuable clinical insight into both physical and mental health disorders. Below are the key areas where this test holds significant diagnostic and therapeutic importance:

1. Early Detection of Carcinoid Tumours

By identifying elevated serotonin, this test aids in diagnosing carcinoid tumours before severe complications arise.

2. Monitoring Tumour Activity

Helps in evaluating tumour progression or response to surgical removal, chemotherapy, or somatostatin therapy.

3. Assessing Serotonin Syndrome Risk

Useful in patients using multiple serotonergic drugs, helping doctors manage and prevent serotonin toxicity.

4. Supporting Mental Health Evaluation

Low serotonin levels provide a biological clue for evaluating patients with mood disorders or chronic fatigue.

5. Guiding Treatment Planning

Helps doctors tailor medical interventions, especially when serotonin imbalance contributes to disease symptoms.

Benefits of the Serotonin (5-HT) Test

The Serotonin (5-HT) Test offers valuable insights into both physical and mental health by measuring serotonin levels in the body. This simple yet powerful diagnostic tool helps doctors detect hormonal imbalances, assess tumour activity, and evaluate overall well-being. Early and accurate measurement of serotonin can significantly improve disease management and treatment outcomes. Key benefits include:

• Accurate detection of serotonin-secreting tumours, enabling timely diagnosis of carcinoid or neuroendocrine disorders.
• Identification of serotonin imbalance, which may contribute to mood disturbances, anxiety, sleep issues, or digestive problems.
• Monitoring treatment response in patients undergoing therapy for carcinoid tumours, ensuring effective disease control.
• Safe and minimally invasive testing, involving a standard blood or urine sample without significant discomfort or risk.
• Early recognition of neuroendocrine and hormonal abnormalities, allowing for prompt medical intervention and improved long-term prognosis.

Booking the Serotonin (5-HT) Test Online and Accessing Reports

With Apollo 24|7, booking the Serotonin (5-HT) Test is convenient and fully digital.

A. How to Book?

1. Visit the Apollo 24|7 websites or mobile app.
2. Go to the ‘Lab Tests’ section.
3. Search for ‘Serotonin (5-HT) Test’.
4. Choose the convenient date and time for home sample collection.
5. Confirm your booking and complete payment securely.

B. Report Access

• Log in to your Apollo 24|7 accounts.
• Navigate to Health Records → Reports.
• Download your Serotonin (5-HT) Test report in PDF format.
• Reports are typically available within 48 to 72 hours of sample collection.

Conclusion

The Serotonin (5-HT) Test is a vital diagnostic tool that provides deep insights into the body’s serotonin production and balance. It plays a key role in detecting carcinoid tumours, identifying mood-related biochemical imbalances, and monitoring treatment progress in patients with neuroendocrine or hormonal disorders. By detecting abnormal serotonin levels early, the test enables timely diagnosis, effective medical management, and improved patient outcomes. Booking your Serotonin (5-HT) Test through Apollo 24|7 ensures a seamless experience with NABL-certified accuracy, home sample collection, transparent pricing, and quick digital report access. Regular monitoring of serotonin levels helps maintain the delicate balance between mood, digestion, and hormonal function, empowering you to take proactive steps toward better physical and emotional health.