Preferred Specimen(s) 1 mL serum
Instructions NSE is high in platelets and RBC; therefore, plasma and hemolyzed specimens are not acceptable
Transport Container Plastic screw-cap vial
Transport Temperature Refrigerated (cold packs)
Reject Criteria
- Plasma
- Hemolysis
Methodology Enzyme Immunoassay
Clinical Significance This test is used to monitor disease progression and therapy in individuals with small cell lung cancer (SCLC) and in other cancers (e.g., prostate).