Melatonin, Urine

The following is a list of what is included in the item above. Click the test(s) below to view what biomarkers are measured along with an explanation of what the biomarker is measuring.

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The Melatonin, Urine test contains 1 test. 

NOTE DO NOT STOP MEDICATIONS WITHOUT FIRST CONSULTING YOUR PHYSICIAN.

Patient Preparation 

Patients should be free from medication for 2 days;

 

Clinical Significance

Melatonin, Urine - The pineal gland has been called a neuroendocrine transducer because of its importance in photoperiodism. The major hormone of the pineal gland is Melatonin (N-acetyl-5-methoxy-tryptamine). It is the major indole compound synthesized by the pineal gland. It is converted from Serotonin by Hydroxy Indole-O-Methyl Transferase. It is excreted into the urine as 6-Sulfatoxymelatonin, N-Acetyl Serotonin, other glucuronide and sulfate forms, and also a small amount as unconjugated "free" Melatonin. Melatonin has potent melanocyte contracting properties. Melatonin is primarily secreted during the dark (night) cycle. Levels drop dramatically after exposure to bright light. Melatonin binds to various proteins including Albumin. Patients with cancer frequently have decreased levels of Melatonin as do patients with impaired central nervous system function. Elevated levels can be found in sympathetic orthostatic hypotension. Melatonin has a stimulatory and suppressive feedback on Gonadotropin release depending on Melatonin levels. Altered levels of Melatonin have been reported with sleep disorders, jet lag, depression, stress, schizophrenia, hypothalamic amenorrhea, pregnancy, anorexia nervosa, immunological disorders, as well as sexual maturation during puberty.

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