Test Code Epic LAB4278 Neuron-Specific Enolase (NSE), Spinal Fluid
Additional Codes
SQ code NSESFM
Mayo code NSESF
Reporting Name
Neuron Specific Enolase, CSFSpecimen Type
CSFPerforming Laboratory
Mayo Clinic Laboratories in RochesterUseful For
An auxiliary test in the diagnosis of Creutzfeldt-Jakob disease
An auxiliary test in the diagnosis of small cell lung carcinoma metastasis to central nervous system or leptomeninges
Specimen Required
Container/Tube: Sterile vial
Specimen Volume: 0.5 mL
Specimen Minimum Volume
0.3 mL
Specimen Stability Information
Specimen Type | Temperature | Time | Special Container |
---|---|---|---|
CSF | Refrigerated (preferred) | 15 days | |
Ambient | 72 hours |
Reference Values
Normal: ≤15 ng/mL
Indeterminate: 15-30 ng/mL
Elevated: >30 ng/mL
Elevated results may indicate the need for additional workup. Possible causes may be neuron-specific enolase-secreting central nervous system/leptomeningeal tumor or rapid neuronal destruction from a variety of causes. In the context of dementia, elevated results may be suggestive of Creutzfeldt-Jakob disease.
Day(s) Performed
Monday through Saturday
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 |
---|---|---|
NSESF | Neuron Specific Enolase, CSF | 44802-7 |
Result ID | Test Result Name | Result LOINC Value |
---|---|---|
NSESF | Neuron Specific Enolase, CSF | 44802-7 |
Reject Due To
Gross hemolysis | Reject |
Gross lipemia | OK |
Gross icterus | Reject |
Method Name
Homogeneous Time-Resolved Fluorescence
Report Available
1 to 3 daysMethod Description
Neuron specific enolase (NSE) 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 non-radioactive 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)