Chromogranin A CGA Test
Short Name: CGA Test
Also known as: CGA Blood Test, Chromogranin A Serum Test, Plasma Chromogranin A, CgA Test, Neuroendocrine Tumor Marker Test
Chromogranin A CGA Test test available at DNA Labs India for ₹10,000. Uses TRACE (Time-Resolved Amplified Cryptate Emission) on Plasma samples. Results in Same-day reports available for samples received on Tuesday or Friday by 11 am.. Free home collection in 300+ cities across India.
🩺 Medically Reviewed By
Dr Pasupathy Arumugam
Consultant Pathologist · Reg: 21521
Last reviewed: September 7, 2026
Overview
The Chromogranin A test is primarily used to detect, diagnose, and monitor neuroendocrine tumours (NETs). It helps clinicians identify the presence of these rare tumours, assess their size and activity, monitor the effectiveness of ongoing treatment, and detect early signs of recurrence after therapy. The test may also be ordered in combination with imaging studies and biopsy results for a comprehensive diagnostic workup.
- Test Code
- 307
- CPT Code
- 86316
- ICD Code
- D3A
- Price
- ₹10,000
- Sample Type
- Plasma
- Result Time
- Same-day reports available for samples received on Tuesday or Friday by 11 am.
- Fasting Required
- No
- Method
- TRACE (Time-Resolved Amplified Cryptate Emission)
Sample Collection
Proton pump inhibitor medications should be discontinued for at least 2 weeks prior to sample collection. Inform your doctor about all medications, supplements, and existing medical conditions before the test. No fasting is specifically required, but follow any instructions provided by your physician.
Method: Venipuncture
Laboratory Analysis
A blood sample will be drawn from a vein in your arm using standard venipuncture technique. The procedure typically takes less than 5 minutes and involves minimal discomfort similar to any routine blood draw.
Report Delivery
After blood collection, slight bruising or soreness at the puncture site may occur. Apply gentle pressure with a cotton ball. Resume normal activities and medications as directed by your physician. The plasma sample will be shipped frozen and must not be thawed during transit.
Timeline: Same-day reports available for samples received on Tuesday or Friday by 11 am.
Patient Instructions
About This Test
Who Should Get This Test
The Chromogranin A test is primarily used to detect, diagnose, and monitor neuroendocrine tumours (NETs). It helps clinicians identify the presence of these rare tumours, assess their size and activity, monitor the effectiveness of ongoing treatment, and detect early signs of recurrence after therapy. The test may also be ordered in combination with imaging studies and biopsy results for a comprehensive diagnostic workup.
How to Prepare
- Discontinue proton pump inhibitor (PPI) medications for at least 2 weeks before sample collection
- Inform the phlebotomist about any medications you are currently taking
- 2 mL (0.5 mL min.) plasma from 1 Lavender Top (EDTA) tube is required
- Sample must be shipped frozen. DO NOT THAW
- Avoid strenuous exercise for 24 hours before sample collection
- Maintain normal hydration before the blood draw
Doctor's Notes
Reviewed by Dr Pasupathy Arumugam — MBBS, MD (Pathology) · Reg. No. 21521
"Chromogranin A is one of the most widely used circulating biomarkers for neuroendocrine tumors. It is particularly useful for diagnosis, prognosis, and monitoring treatment response. Patients presenting with flushing, diarrhoea, or unexplained abdominal symptoms should consider this test alongside imaging studies for a comprehensive evaluation."
Last medically reviewed: September 7, 2026
Test Parameters & Specifications
Sample Stability
- Sample thawed after freezing
- Insufficient sample volume (less than 0.5 mL plasma)
- Sample collected in incorrect tube type (non-EDTA)
- Haemolysed or lipemic sample
- Patient on proton pump inhibitor therapy without washout period
- Sample received without proper labelling or requisition form
Understanding Your Results
Normal range. Neuroendocrine tumour is less likely but does not completely exclude it. Clinical correlation is advised.
Status: Normal
Range: < 100 ng/mL
Mildly elevated. May be seen in early-stage NETs, non-tumour conditions such as chronic gastritis, renal impairment, or PPI use. Further investigation recommended.
Status: Borderline
Range: 100–250 ng/mL
Moderately elevated. Suggestive of neuroendocrine tumour activity. Imaging studies and specialist consultation strongly recommended.
Status: Elevated
Range: 250–500 ng/mL
Significantly elevated. Highly suggestive of neuroendocrine tumour with possible metastatic disease. Urgent specialist evaluation and comprehensive workup required.
Status: High
Range: > 500 ng/mL
Consult your doctor if your Chromogranin A levels are elevated, if you experience persistent flushing, diarrhoea, wheezing, abdominal pain, or unexplained weight loss, or if you have a known history of neuroendocrine tumours and your CGA levels are rising during surveillance.
Limitations
- ⚠CGA is not specific to neuroendocrine tumours; elevated levels can occur in other conditions such as chronic gastritis, renal failure, and liver cirrhosis
- ⚠The test should not be used as a standalone diagnostic tool; clinical correlation and imaging are essential
- ⚠Sensitivity may be lower for certain well-differentiated or small tumours
- ⚠Results may vary between different assay platforms and laboratories
- ⚠False positives are common in patients on proton pump inhibitor therapy
Risks & Considerations
- ●Minor bruising or discomfort at the blood draw site
- ●Rare risk of infection at the puncture site
- ●Fainting or lightheadedness in sensitive individuals
- ●False elevation if PPI medications were not discontinued as instructed
Interfering Factors
- ●Proton pump inhibitor (PPI) medications can falsely elevate CGA levels
- ●H2 receptor antagonists may moderately increase CGA concentrations
- ●Chronic kidney disease or renal insufficiency can raise CGA levels
- ●Chronic atrophic gastritis with achlorhydria may elevate CGA
- ●Strenuous physical exercise shortly before sample collection
- ●Severe heart failure and liver cirrhosis may cause elevated levels
- ●Intake of certain supplements or medications affecting gastric acid secretion
Compare With Similar Tests
| Test | Chromogranin A CGA Test | 5-HIAA (5-Hydroxyindoleacetic Acid) | Neuron-Specific Enolase (NSE) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Comparison | Chromogranin A CGA Test | 5-HIAA is a urine-based test measuring serotonin metabolite, useful specifically for carcinoid tumours. CGA is blood-based and has broader applicability across various NET types. | NSE is another neuroendocrine marker primarily used for small cell lung carcinoma and neuroblastoma. CGA is considered more widely applicable across NET subtypes. |
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the Chromogranin A CGA test?
Why is the Chromogranin A test ordered?
What is the cost of the Chromogranin A test in India?
Do I need to fast before the CGA test?
What medications can interfere with CGA test results?
What sample is required for the Chromogranin A test?
How long does it take to get CGA test results?
Does an elevated CGA level always mean cancer?
What are neuroendocrine tumours?
Is the Chromogranin A test available with home sample collection?
What other tests are used alongside CGA for diagnosing neuroendocrine tumours?
Is the Chromogranin A test covered by insurance in India?
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