Neuron-Specific Enolase (NSE)
Laboratory Tests
estimated about CNY 200-500
(estimated about USD 30-70)
1 day
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Description
Neuron-Specific Enolase (NSE) is a blood test used to help monitor neuroendocrine tumors and small cell lung cancer, with typical costs ranging ¥200–¥500 in China; ChinaMedicalHub assists with hospital booking and interpreter support.
Main Uses
Neuron-Specific Enolase (NSE) is primarily used as a tumor marker to aid in the diagnosis and monitoring of small cell lung cancer (SCLC) and neuroblastoma. It is also useful for assessing the response to treatment and detecting recurrence in these cancers. Additionally, NSE can be used to evaluate the severity of brain damage following traumatic brain injury or stroke, and to monitor patients with cerebrovascular diseases.
Normal Range
The normal range for Neuron-Specific Enolase (NSE) is typically between 0-16.3 ng/mL in adults, though this can vary slightly depending on the laboratory and the specific method used.
Low Values - Possible Causes
Low NSE levels are generally not a concern and do not usually indicate any significant health issues. However, they might be observed in: 1. Healthy individuals, 2. Non-neuroendocrine tumors, 3. Certain benign conditions, 4. After successful treatment of neuroendocrine tumors, 5. In some cases, low values may simply reflect individual biological variation.
High Values - Possible Causes
Elevated NSE levels can be indicative of: 1. Small cell lung cancer (SCLC), 2. Neuroblastoma, 3. Other neuroendocrine tumors, 4. Brain injury or stroke, 5. Cerebrovascular diseases, including subarachnoid hemorrhage.