The experimental data show that in mucosal injury of the alimentary system serotonin metabolism and secretion is disturbed. Such suggestions are also drawn in discussions concerning pathogenesis of ulcerative colitis.
The aim of the study: To perform a quantitative evaluation of 24-hour urine excretion of a major serotonin metabolite-5-hydroxyindole acetic acid (5-HIAA) in patients with ulcerative colitis (UC).
Material and methods: The studied group comprised 50 patients with exacerbated UC, aged 21-56 years. Among them 25 had mild and 25 severe exacerbation according to Trulove's and Witts criteria. The control group comprised 25 healthy persons. On the study day the patients remained on standard liquid diet--Nutrdrink 3 x 400 ml with the caloric value of 1800 kcal. 5-HIAA concentration was measured by ELISA method applying IBL antibodies (RE 59131), and the results were presented in mg/dl and then the value of 24-hour urine excretion was calculated. Results. In the group o patients with severely exacerbated UC 5-HIAA excretion was significantly lower that in healthy volunteers--1.66 +/- 0.98 mg/24 hi 5.77 +/- 0.46 mg/24 respectively (p < 0.05). The results of 5-HIAA excretion showed positive correlation with serum albumin concentration. In the group of patients with mild colitis such significant changes and correlations were not observed.
Conclusions: (1) In severe exacerbations of UC serotonin metabolism is largely changed. (2) 24-hour serotonin excretion can have a predictive value in UC.