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DNA Labs India

Neuron Specific Enolase (NSE) Serum Test

DNA Labs India | ISO 9001:2015 Certified

Neuron Specific Enolase (NSE) Serum Test

Short Name: NSE Serum Test

Also known as: NSE Test, Neuron Specific Enolase Serum Test

Neuron Specific Enolase (NSE) Serum Test test available at DNA Labs India for ₹4,500. Uses Electrochemiluminescence on Serum samples. Results in Same day report if sample is received by 11 AM on a working day.. Free home collection in 300+ cities across India.

Oncologist🏠 Home Collection

🩺 Medically Reviewed By

Overview

To diagnose and monitor NSE-secreting tumors, including small cell lung carcinoma, neuroblastoma, carcinoid tumors, and islet cell tumors, and to assess comatose patients.

Test Code
1290
Price
₹4,500
Sample Type
Serum
Result Time
Same day report if sample is received by 11 AM on a working day.
Fasting Required
No
Method
Electrochemiluminescence
Step 1

Sample Collection

No special preparation required

Method: Venipuncture

Step 2

Laboratory Analysis

A blood sample will be drawn from a vein using standard venipuncture technique

Step 3

Report Delivery

Apply pressure to the puncture site to prevent bleeding; resume normal activities

Timeline: Same day report if sample is received by 11 AM on a working day.

Patient Instructions

1
Before the Test:No fasting or special preparation is needed.
2
During the Test:A blood sample is drawn from a vein in the arm, which typically takes a few minutes.
3
After the Test:You may experience slight pain or bruising at the puncture site; apply pressure and resume normal activities.

About This Test

Who Should Get This Test

To diagnose and monitor NSE-secreting tumors, including small cell lung carcinoma, neuroblastoma, carcinoid tumors, and islet cell tumors, and to assess comatose patients.

How to Prepare

  • Collect 2 mL blood in a Serum Separator Tube (SST)
  • Centrifuge and separate serum promptly
  • Ship refrigerated or frozen
  • Avoid hemolysis during collection and handling

Doctor's Notes

Reviewed by — MBBS, MD (Pathology) · Reg. No. 21521

"This test is crucial for monitoring treatment response in cancer patients with NSE-secreting tumors."

Last medically reviewed: September 7, 2026

Test Parameters & Specifications

Sample TypeSerum
Sample Volume2 mL (1 mL min.)
ContainerSST (Serum Separator Tube)
Collection MethodVenipuncture

Sample Stability

Room Temperature6 hours
Refrigerator24 hours
Frozen3 months
Sample Rejection Criteria:
  • Hemolysed specimens are not acceptable

Understanding Your Results

NSE levels are interpreted in the context of clinical symptoms and other diagnostic tests. Elevated levels may indicate certain cancers, but normal levels do not entirely rule out disease.
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Elevated NSE

May suggest NSE-secreting tumors such as small cell lung cancer or neuroblastoma; requires further investigation

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Normal NSE

May indicate absence of active NSE-secreting tumors, but clinical correlation is essential

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Trends over time

Used to monitor treatment response; decreasing levels may indicate positive response

⚠️ When to Consult a Doctor:

If NSE results are abnormal, or if symptoms such as weight loss, cough, or lumps persist, consult a healthcare professional for further evaluation.

Limitations

  • Not specific to cancer; can be elevated in other neurological conditions
  • Not a general cancer screening test

Risks & Considerations

  • Slight pain or bruising at the blood draw site
  • Rare risk of infection or hematoma

Interfering Factors

  • Hemolysis can affect results

Compare With Similar Tests

TestNeuron Specific Enolase (NSE) Serum TestCEA Serum TestAFP Serum TestChromogranin A TestCytokeratin 19 Fragment (CYFRA 21-1) Test
ComparisonNeuron Specific Enolase (NSE) Serum Test

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the Neuron Specific Enolase (NSE) Serum Test?
It is a blood test that measures NSE levels, an enzyme used as a tumor marker for certain neuroendocrine cancers.
Why is the NSE Serum Test performed?
To diagnose and monitor cancers such as small cell lung cancer, neuroblastoma, carcinoid tumors, and islet cell tumors.
What symptoms may indicate the need for an NSE test?
Symptoms like unexplained weight loss, chronic cough, fatigue, difficulty breathing, persistent pain, or lumps may prompt this test.
How is the NSE test conducted?
A blood sample is drawn from a vein and analyzed in the laboratory using the electrochemiluminescence method.
What does a high NSE level mean?
Elevated NSE levels can indicate the presence of NSE-secreting tumors, but further clinical evaluation is necessary for diagnosis.
Is fasting required for the NSE test?
No, no special preparation or fasting is required before the test.
How long does it take to get NSE test results?
Results are typically available the same day if the sample is received by 11 AM on a working day.
What is the cost of the NSE Serum Test at DNA Labs India?
The test costs INR 4500, with free home sample collection available for online bookings.
Is home sample collection available for this test?
Yes, free home collection is available across many cities in India for convenience.
Are there any risks associated with the NSE test?
Risks are minimal, similar to a standard blood draw, including slight pain or bruising at the puncture site.
Can the NSE test diagnose all types of cancer?
No, it is specific for certain neuroendocrine tumors and is not used as a general cancer screening test.
How should I interpret my NSE test results?
Consult your doctor for proper interpretation, as elevated levels may require further investigation and correlation with other tests.
Worried about the process? Our certified phlebotomists collect thousands of samples every month across India. The process takes under 5 minutes and is virtually painless. Questions? Message us on WhatsApp — we're here 7 days a week.

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We serve as a reference laboratory for hospitals and clinics across India. Send samples from your facility with same-day pickup, priority processing, and results delivered through our online portal. Competitive institutional pricing available.

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Your medical data is protected under Indian law.

Stored in India: All patient records are stored on servers located in India. No data is transferred outside the country.

DPDP Act Compliant: Under the Digital Personal Data Protection Act 2023, you can request deletion of your records at any time by contacting support.

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