Does A High Value Of HIAA Test Indicate Carcinoid Tumor?

Posted on Mon, 24 Nov 2014

Question: Talked to my PCP about increasing number of sweats I've been having. They come on very quickly, sometimes last as long as 2 hrs. He decided to do some not so usual tests thinking it might be an unusual condition causing it. I did the 5-HIAA test and the results came back greater than 11. Could mean a carcinoid tumor. We are repeating test because the lab tech did not tell me to refrigerate my sample during collection and I had at least 6 of the foods on the avoid l list 2-3 days before the test. My PCP thinks the lab results are unlikely to change for the second time. I'm wondering if the sweats have anything to do with the 1000mgs. ER metformin I take twice a day as I see lots of sites on the Internet with people who take metformin who complain of excessive sweating - especially the head where I sweat the most badly. I also was diagnosed with Crohn's disease in 1994 and have an intestine full of pseudopolyps. Any input you have would be greatly appreciated. I have another appt. with my PCP soon and would like as much info as possible regarding this issue. Thank you.

Answered by Dr. Dr Samir Patil (8 hours later)

Brief Answer:
need to repeat the test

Detailed Answer:
Hello,
Am I right to assume that it was a 24 hour urinary sample.
If yes the the value is significant and suggests the presence of an carcinoid
However in case you hadn't followed the proper dietary restrictions you need to take the test again and if positive will need further workup for carcinoid.
Hypoglycemia can cause periods of sweating and I would advise you to get your blood sugar checked during a sweating episode. unlikely to be due to metformin
Other condition which an cause sweating is autonomic neuropathy which we would consider only if your repeat test is normal
Hope this helps
Do get back in case you have further queries
Regards
Dr Samir Patil

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Above answer was peer-reviewed by : Dr. Bhagyalaxmi Nalaparaju