This test should be regarded as 'Research Use Only'. This test has not been cleared or approved by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration. It may not be covered by insurance and providers need to inform all patients of this prior to ordering.
For Medicare patients, an Advanced Beneficiary notice (ABN) is required; for Medicaid patients, a Noncovered Services Waiver is required, and for commercial payers, prior authorization should be obtained.
Prostaglandins are fatty acids derived from arachidonic acid metabolism. They are closely related to the Thromboxanes and Leukotrienes. Prostaglandin D2 is derived mainly from Prostaglandin H2, and is metabolized to Dihydroketo Prostaglandin D2. Prostaglandin D2 is excreted directly into the urine. The sites of highest Prostaglandin D2 activity are the brain, spinal cord, intestines, and stomach. Prostaglandin D2 is the major Prostaglandin produced by uterine tissue. Prostaglandin D2 is a potent bronchoconstrictor, neuromodulator, and anti-antithrombin agent. It also stimulates the secretion of Pancreatic Glucagon. Prostaglandin D2 has been found to have an anti-metastatic effect on many malignant tumor cells. Prostaglandin D2 production and circulating levels are drastically suppressed by aspirin and Indomethacin.