What Does HIAA Stand For?

HIAA stands for Hydroxyindoleacetic Acid

HIAA, or Hydroxyindoleacetic Acid, is a metabolite of serotonin that is primarily produced in the body through the breakdown of serotonin in the liver. It is primarily excreted in the urine and is often used as a biomarker in the diagnosis and monitoring of certain medical conditions, particularly neuroendocrine tumors such as carcinoid syndrome. Elevated levels of HIAA can indicate excessive serotonin production, making it a valuable tool in clinical assessments related to serotonin metabolism and related disorders.