Neuron-specific enolase as a tumor marker in seminoma
Author Information
Author(s): S.D. Fosså, O. Klepp, E. Paus
Primary Institution: The Norwegian Radium Hospital
Hypothesis
The determination of serum NSE might be worthwhile in the management of patients with seminoma.
Conclusion
NSE seems to be a clinically worthwhile serum tumor marker for monitoring seminoma patients.
Supporting Evidence
- NSE was elevated in six out of 21 patients with stage I seminoma before orchiectomy.
- NSE normalized in all evaluated stage I cases after orchiectomy.
- NSE monitored the effect of cisplatin-based chemotherapy in patients with metastases.
- No false positive NSE values were observed.
- NSE has a sensitivity and specificity similar to HCG.
Takeaway
Neuron-specific enolase (NSE) can help doctors check how well treatment is working for patients with a type of testicular cancer called seminoma.
Methodology
Serum NSE levels were determined at least once during the clinical course of 54 patients treated for seminoma.
Limitations
The study is retrospective and based on available serum samples, which may limit the generalizability of the findings.
Participant Demographics
Patients treated for seminoma at the Departments of Medical Oncology of the Norwegian Radium Hospital and the University Hospital, Trondheim.
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