Sample type: Serum

Test name: Neuron Specific Enolase a.k.a. NSE

Condition / Indication: NSE can be used as a tumour marker for non-small cell lung cancer and neuroendocrine tumours. Not suitable for screening or diagnosis because of poor sensitivity. NSE can be used as a marker of neuronal damage, especially following hypoxic brain injury.

Special precautions & notes: Sample should be sent to the laboratory within 1 hour of collection. NSE cannot be measured on haemolysed samples

Reference range: Healthy adult reference range <17 ug/L. A separate interpretation protocol for neuroprognostication post-OHCA is available from UHB. In other causes of hypoxic brain injury there are no validated cut-offs.

Container: Serum (Gold top)

Ideal volume (mL): 5 mL

Referred outside NBT for analysis? Yes

Discipline: Clinical Biochemistry

Turnaround time: 3 days

Referral location: Department of Clinical Biochemistry, Level 8, Bristol Royal Infirmary, Marlborough Street, Bristol, BS2 8HW