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neuron-specific enolase
Glycolytic enzyme serving as a biomarker for neuroendocrine tumors and neuronal damage.
Full Definition
Neuron-specific enolase (NSE) is a glycolytic enzyme found predominantly in neurons and neuroendocrine cells. It serves as an important biomarker in oncology for detecting and monitoring neuroendocrine tumors, particularly small cell lung cancer and neuroblastoma. Elevated serum NSE levels can indicate tumor presence, progression, or recurrence. In clinical practice, NSE is often measured alongside other neuroendocrine markers like chromogranin A for comprehensive tumor assessment. NSE levels may also be elevated in conditions involving neuronal damage or stress.
Usage
Usage note: Hyphenate when used as compound modifier; capitalize when abbreviated as NSE.
In Context
- "Serial neuron-specific enolase measurements showed declining levels following chemotherapy initiation." — Oncology progress note
- "The elevated neuron-specific enolase of 45 ng/mL suggested possible neuroendocrine tumor recurrence." — Laboratory report interpretation
Also known as
NSE
enolase 2
Don't confuse with
non-neuronal enolase
muscle-specific enolase