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Melanocyte-stimulating Hormone (MSH) Blood Test

A melanocyte-stimulating Hormone Blood Test is used to evaluate the levels of MSH in the blood. It controls the production of hormones, modulates the immune system, and controls nerve function, too.

Sample Report

Test Code: 010421

CPT Code: 83519

Also Known As: Alpha-Melanocyte-stimulating Hormone, α-MSH, Plasma

Methodology:

Radioimmunoassay (RIA)

Specimen Type: Blood

Preparation:

No special preparation required.

Test Results:

6-9 days. May take longer based on weather, holiday or lab delays.


Details:

A special collection kit is required for this test that may not be in stock at all patient service centers. Calling the lab before going is recommended to ensure that the correct kit is available.

 


Test Code: 91898

CPT Code: 83520

Also Known As: Alpha-Melanocyte-stimulating Hormone, α-MSH, Plasma

Methodology:

Enzyme Linked Immunosorbent Assay (ELISA) • Extraction

Specimen Type: Blood

Preparation:

Overnight fasting is preferred.

Test Results:

6-9 days. May take longer based on weather, holiday or lab delays.

Description

MSH is an anti-inflammatory, regulatory hormone made in the hypothalamus. It controls production of hormones, modulates the immune system and controls nerve function, too. It is made when leptin is able to activate its receptor in the proopio-melanocortin (POMC) pathway. If the receptor is damaged by peripheral immune effects, such as the release of too many pro-inflammatory cytokines, then the receptor doesn't work right and MSH isn't made. Leptin controls storage of fatty acids as fat, so MSH and leptin are a major source of interest.

MSH sits as the central hub of a series of important effects. MSH controls hypothalamic production of melatonin and endorphins. Without MSH, deficiency creates chronic non-restful sleep and chronic increased perception of pain, respectively. MSH deficiency causes chronic fatigue and chronic pain. MSH also controls many protective effects in the skin, gut and mucus membranes of the nose and lung. It also controls the peripheral release of cytokines; when there isn't enough MSH, the peripheral inflammatory effects are multiplied. MSH also controls pituitary function, with 60% of MSH deficient patients not having enough antidiuretic hormone. These patients will be thirsty all the time, urinate frequently and often will have unusual sensitivity to static electrical shocks. 40% of MSH deficient patients won't regulate male hormone production and another 40% won't regulate pro-per control of ACTH and cortisol.

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