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HelpNeuron-Specific Enolase, Serum
Reporting Name
Neuron Specific Enolase, SSCH Clinical System Name: Miscellaneous Lab Test
Useful For
A follow-up marker in patients with neuron-specific enolase-secreting tumors of any type
An auxiliary test in the diagnosis of small cell lung carcinoma
An auxiliary test in the diagnosis of carcinoids, islet cell tumors, and neuroblastomas
An auxiliary tool in the assessment of comatose patients
Performing Laboratory
Mayo Clinic Laboratories in Rochester
Specimen Type
SerumSpecimen Required
Collection Container/Tube:
Preferred: Red top
Acceptable: Serum gel
Submission Container/Tube: Plastic vial
Specimen Volume: 0.5 mL
Collection Instructions:
1. Specimens should not be transported by tube system prior to centrifugation.
2. Centrifuge and aliquot serum into a plastic vial.
Specimen Minimum Volume
0.3 mL
Specimen Stability Information
| Specimen Type | Temperature | Time | Special Container |
|---|---|---|---|
| Serum | Refrigerated (preferred) | 7 days | |
| Ambient | 5 days |
Reference Values
≤15 ng/mL
Serum markers are not specific for malignancy, and values may vary by method.
Test Classification
This test was developed and its performance characteristics determined by Mayo Clinic in a manner consistent with CLIA requirements. It has not been cleared or approved by the US Food and Drug Administration.CPT Code Information
83520
LOINC Code Information
| Test ID | Test Order Name | Order LOINC Value |
|---|---|---|
| NSE | Neuron Specific Enolase, S | 15060-7 |
| Result ID | Test Result Name | Result LOINC Value |
|---|---|---|
| NSE | Neuron Specific Enolase, S | 15060-7 |
Report Available
1 to 3 daysReject Due To
| Gross hemolysis | Reject |
| Gross lipemia | OK |
| Gross icterus | Reject |
| Hemolysis at any level | Reject |
Day(s) Performed
Monday through Saturday
TAT: 3 days
Method Description
Neuron-specific enolase is measured in this homogeneous automated immunofluorescent assay on the BRAHMS Kryptor. The Kryptor uses TRACE (time resolved amplified cryptate emission) technology based on a nonradioactive transfer of energy. This transfer occurs between 2 fluorescent tracers: the donor (europium cryptate) and the acceptor (XL665). In the NSE assay, 2 monoclonal antibodies are labeled, 1 with europium cryptate and 1 with XL665. NSE is sandwiched between the 2 antibodies, bringing them into close proximity. When the antigen-antibody complex is excited with a nitrogen laser at 337 nm, some fluorescent energy is emitted at 620 nm, and the rest is transferred to XL665. This energy is then emitted as fluorescence at 665 nm. A ratio of the energy emitted at 665 nm to that emitted at 620 nm (internal reference) is calculated for each sample. Signal intensity is proportional to the number of antigen-antibody complexes formed and, therefore, to antigen concentration.(Unpublished Mayo method)
Method Name
Homogeneous Time-Resolved Fluorescence
Forms
If not ordering electronically, complete, print, and send an Oncology Test Request (T729) with the specimen.