Overview and Clinical Significance

Neuron-Specific Enolase (NSE) is a tumor marker primarily associated with neuroendocrine tumors, small cell lung cancer, and neuroblastoma. It is an enzyme found in neurons and neuroendocrine cells, playing a role in glycolysis and cellular metabolism.

Clinical Significance

• Neuroendocrine Tumors & Small Cell Lung Cancer: NSE is commonly elevated in small cell lung cancer (SCLC) and neuroblastoma, aiding in diagnosis and disease monitoring.
• Neurological Damage & Brain Injuries: NSE levels can rise in brain trauma and neurodegenerative diseases, reflecting neuronal damage and disease progression.
• Prognostic Value in Malignant Lymphoma: Studies suggest NSE may serve as a biomarker for aggressive lymphomas, with higher levels correlating with poorer survival rates.
• Diagnostic & Therapeutic Applications: NSE testing helps assess tumor burden, neurological health, and treatment response.

NSE is a key biomarker for neuroendocrine tumors and neurological conditions, influencing diagnostic accuracy, treatment monitoring, and prognostic evaluations.

‍