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Neuron Specific Enolase
178.00
The Neuron Specific Enolase (NSE) test measures a protein released from nerve and neuroendocrine cells. It is used in cancer monitoring and assessment of neurological injury.
Turnaround time
5 days
Biomarkers count
1
Same-Day Appointments
UKAS Accredited Labs
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Under 18? Patients under 18 can only be seen at GB Medlabs and Clinilabs, Monday to Friday only.
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Details about Neuron Specific Enolase
What is the Neuron Specific Enolase test?
The Neuron Specific Enolase (NSE) test measures levels of NSE, an enzyme found mainly in neurons and neuroendocrine cells. When these cells are damaged or proliferate abnormally, NSE can be released into the bloodstream.
NSE is commonly used as a tumour marker, particularly in small cell lung cancer (SCLC) and other neuroendocrine tumours. It may also rise in conditions involving acute neuronal damage, such as brain injury or hypoxia.
Why do I need a Neuron Specific Enolase test?
NSE testing is used to support diagnosis, prognosis, or monitoring rather than as a standalone screening test.
You may need this test if you:
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Are being investigated for neuroendocrine tumours
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Have known small cell lung cancer
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Are undergoing cancer treatment monitoring
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Have unexplained neurological symptoms
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Have had brain injury or reduced oxygen supply to the brain
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Require tumour marker follow-up
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Need assessment alongside imaging and other markers
The test helps track disease activity and response to treatment.
Benefits of the test
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Established neuroendocrine tumour marker
Commonly used in small cell lung cancer. -
Supports treatment monitoring
Changes in levels may reflect response or progression. -
Provides neurological injury insight
Can rise with neuronal damage. -
Simple blood-based testing
Requires only one blood sample. -
Useful alongside imaging
Adds biochemical context to scans. -
Supports prognosis assessment
Higher levels may correlate with disease burden. -
Widely used in oncology
Standard marker in selected cancers. -
Helpful in follow-up care
Enables trend monitoring over time.
Step-by-step: How we offer testing
Clinic-based testing (UK-wide)
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Choose your nearest UK clinic
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Attend your appointment
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Blood sample taken by a clinician
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Sample sent to the laboratory
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Results issued once analysis is complete
Home or hotel visit (+£60, UK-wide)
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Mobile phlebotomist attends your location
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Blood sample taken at home or hotel
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Sample securely transported to the laboratory
Your results explained
Low / normal NSE
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NSE within reference range
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UK standard (typical): <16 µg/L
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Suggests no significant neuroendocrine activity
Moderately elevated NSE
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Above reference range
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May be seen in neuroendocrine tumours or neurological injury
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Requires correlation with symptoms and imaging
High NSE
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Markedly elevated levels
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Strongly associated with active neuroendocrine malignancy or significant neuronal damage
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Often used for monitoring disease progression
Haemolysis can falsely elevate NSE and should be excluded when interpreting results.
How It Works
Simple steps to get your results
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Book Online
Choose your test online and book in seconds. Select your preferred clinic location or home visit option.
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Visit or Test at Home
Attend one of our UK or London clinics, arrange a home nurse visit, or use a finger-prick kit where available.
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Get Your Results
Your sample is analysed by accredited UK laboratories, with secure results delivered directly to you.
Take control of your health with London Blood Tests
WhatsApp UsHow to Prepare for Your Test
Follow these guidelines for accurate results
Sample Timing
Where possible, attend your blood test between 7am and 12pm. Please wait until any short-term illness or infection has fully resolved before testing. Avoid intense exercise for 24–48 hours beforehand, as this can affect certain markers.
Fasting & Hydration
Fasting is not always required, but some tests may recommend it. If fasting is advised, avoid food for 8–12 hours before your appointment and drink water only. Stay well hydrated, as this helps with sample collection and accuracy.
Medications & Supplements
Continue prescribed medications unless advised otherwise by your clinician. Avoid vitamin, mineral, or biotin supplements for at least 24–48 hours before your test, as these can interfere with results. If you are unsure about any medication or supplement, please let us know before your appointment.
Hormones & Menstrual Cycle
For hormone-related tests, timing within your menstrual cycle may be important. If relevant, follow any specific guidance provided on your test page.
If you have any questions or special circumstances, our team is happy to advise before your appointment.
Frequently Asked Questions
Monitoring neuroendocrine tumours and neuronal injury.
No, it is used for diagnosis support and monitoring.
Commonly small cell lung cancer and neuroendocrine tumours.
Yes, due to neuronal damage.
No, it must be interpreted with imaging and clinical findings.
Yes, levels often fall with effective therapy.
Fasting is not required.
Yes, haemolysis may falsely raise levels.
Yes, trends over time are clinically useful.
It suggests increased neuroendocrine cell activity and supports further oncological or neurological evaluation.
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