return to C index

return to index page

Test Directory -  Chromogranin A

Clinical Indications

Chromogranin A is produced by a variety of normal and malignant neuroendocrine and sympathetic neuronal cells and may serve as a clinically useful marker for hormone-negative endocrine neoplasia.
Elevated levels of Chromogranin A are seen in neuroendocrine tumours, including phaeochromocytoma, medullary carcinoma of thyroid, pancreatic islet cell adenoma, carcinoid tumour, anterior pituitary adenoma, carotid body tumour, small cell carcinoma of the lung and neuroblastoma. 
Minor increases are seen in essential hypertension. Chromogranin A concentrations rise markedly in patients with renal failure.

Request Form

Combined Pathology Blood form (Yellow/Black)

Availability

Analysed by referral laboratory if specific criteria met.

Specific Criteria

Investigation of suspected neuroendocrine tumour, if specifically requested by a Consultant. 

Turnaround Time

3 weeks

Specimen

EDTA plasma (purple top) or Plain (red top) tube. Yellow top (SST) tubes should not be used.

Volume

2 ml

Container

Purple top (EDTA) tube.

Lab. Handling

Aliquot and store at 4C.

Causes for Rejection

Not meeting specific criteria for analysis.

Reference Range

Normal adult concentrations: 2 - 20 U/L

        

 


Last edited 07/08/08