Vascular Endothelial Growth Factor, Plasma
Use
Vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) is involved in angiogenesis (growth of new blood vessels), which is crucial for processes like embryonic development, tissue repair, and responses to blocked blood vessels. It plays a role in pathological conditions such as tumor growth and metastases, as well as other diseases like rheumatoid arthritis, diabetes, and age-related macular degeneration. VEGF levels are elevated in POEMS syndrome (characterized by polyneuropathy, organomegaly, endocrinopathy, monoclonal gammopathy, and skin changes) and can be used as a diagnostic marker and to monitor therapy response.
Special Instructions
Following specimen collection, plasma must be immediately frozen or refrigerated as VEGF has limited stability; it can be stored refrigerated for 24 hours, after which it should be frozen. Be cautious of false results in patients receiving bevacizumab therapy due to interference.
Limitations
Elevated VEGF levels should be interpreted within the clinical context as they can occur in various diseases involving angiogenesis. Normal VEGF levels do not rule out POEMS syndrome. VEGF's stability is limited, thus requiring immediate low-temperature storage. Patients undergoing bevacizumab therapy may present falsely altered results.
New York Approved
Methodology
Immunoassay (ECLIA)
Biomarkers
LOINC Codes
- 34694-0
- 34694-0
Result Turnaround Time
2-7 days
Related Documents
For more information, please review the documents below
Specimen
Plasma
Volume
0.5 mL
Minimum Volume
0.3 mL
Container
Plastic vial
Collection Instructions
Immediately after collection, place tube on wet ice. Centrifuge at 4 degrees C, 1500 x g for 10 minutes. Aliquot plasma into a plastic vial. Freeze specimen within 2 hours of collection.
Storage Instructions
Frozen (preferred) for 21 days, or Refrigerated for 24 hours.
Causes for Rejection
Gross lipemia, Gross icterus, Heat-treated.
Stability Requirements
| Temperature | Period |
|---|---|
| Refrigerated | 24 hours |
| Frozen | 21 days |