5-Hydroxyindole Acetic Acid (5-HIAA), Random Urine

Specimen Type

Containers

Collection Containers

Volume

Sample Volume

10 mL

Patient Preparation

The following foods and medications should be avoided for three (3) days prior to the collection of urine, and during the collection of the sample:
Foods containing high hydroxyindole concentrations (e.g. aubergines, avocados, bananas, black- and red-currants, kiwi, gooseberries, melons, tomatoes, plums, pineapples and walnuts) as well as Glyceryl Guaiacolate (an ingredient in some cough medicines) can increase urinary 5-HIAA excretion. Pregnancy and sleep deprivation can also result in raised 5-HIAA excretion.
Medications and drugs such as Levodopa, Methyldopa, Monoamine Oxidase Inhibitors, Ethanol, Imipramine, Isoniazid, Reserpine and p-Chlorophenylalanine can reduce 5- HIAA production. Others, such as Acetanilide, Phenacetin, Methocarbamol, Cisplatin, Fluorouracil, Melphalan and Rauwolfia Alkaloids can increase urinary 5-HIAA, as can 5- Hydroxytryptophan, which is used to treat depression and is available over-the-counter.

Collection & Handling

Handling Information

Acidify sample within 24 hours of collection using 6N HCl to a pH of less than 4 (just one or 2 drops).

Additional Information

Indicate Random.

Stability

Rejection Criteria