Neuron Specific Enolase, Serum
Also known as: NSE S
Use
The Neuron Specific Enolase, Serum test is used to detect neuron specific enolase, which may serve as a tumor marker in the evaluation of neuroendocrine tumors. Elevated levels of neuron specific enolase could indicate the presence of neuroendocrine tumors, making it a useful tool in the clinical assessment of diseases such as neuroblastoma. However, results obtained through different assay methods or kits are not interchangeable, and elevated levels must be interpreted with caution considering other clinical findings.
Special Instructions
Not provided.
Limitations
This test is performed using the BRAHMS NSE Kryptor Immunoassay, and results obtained cannot be directly compared with those from other assay methods or kits. Additionally, while neuron specific enolase can be a useful marker, it cannot be used as absolute evidence of the presence or absence of malignant disease. Certain conditions, such as hemolysis of the specimen, can falsely elevate NSE levels as the enzyme is expressed in red blood cells.
New York Approved
Methodology
Immunoassay (Quantitative Immunoassay)
Biomarkers
Neuron Specific Enolase
Protein
LOINC Codes
- 57371-7 - NSE SerPl IA-mCnc
Result Turnaround Time
1-4 days
Related Documents
For more information, please review the documents below
Specimen
Serum
Volume
1 mL
Minimum Volume
0.5 mL
Container
Serum Separator Tube (SST) or Plain Red
Collection Instructions
Allow specimen to clot completely at room temperature. Separate from cells ASAP or within 2 hours of collection.
Storage Instructions
Refrigerated
Causes for Rejection
Plasma. Hemolyzed specimens.
Stability Requirements
| Temperature | Period |
|---|---|
| Room Temperature | Unacceptable |
| Refrigerated | 1 week |
| Frozen | 1 year (avoid repeated freeze/thaw cycles) |
Other tests from different labs that may be relevant