Skip to content

Neuron-Specific Enolase (NSE)

Published: July 27, 2026Updated: August 25, 2026

NSE is a glycolytic enzyme found primarily in neurons and neuroendocrine cells. It is used to detect and monitor treatment in certain cancers, particularly neuroblastoma and small cell lung cancer.

Quick summary

NSE is a biomarker for diagnosing and monitoring neuroendocrine tumors.

Medically reviewed by WellAlly Editorial TeamLast reviewed August 25, 2026Editorial policy

Key facts at a glance

Units
ng/mL
Clinical utility
diagnostic
Result kind
quantitative
FDA-cleared
Roche NSE, Abbott NSE, Siemens NSE, Fujirebio NSE
interpretation: {"text":"NSE levels between 0–17 ng/mL are considered within the normal range.","label":"Normal"}; {"text":"Levels above 17 ng/mL may indicate neuroblastoma, small cell lung cancer, or other neuroendocrine tumors.","label":"Elevated"}

Neuron-Specific Enolase (NSE) is a glycolytic enzyme that is primarily found in neurons and cells of neuroendocrine origin. Its presence in elevated levels in the blood can indicate damage to these cells or the presence of neuroendocrine tumors.

In clinical settings, NSE is commonly used as a tumor marker for neuroblastoma and small cell lung cancer (SCLC). Elevated levels of NSE can help in the diagnosis and monitoring of these cancers, as well as in assessing the effectiveness of treatment.

The reference range for NSE is typically between 0–17 ng/mL. Levels above this range may suggest the presence of a neuroendocrine tumor or other conditions affecting the nervous system.

Frequently asked questions

What conditions can cause elevated NSE levels?
Elevated NSE levels can be caused by neuroblastoma, small cell lung cancer, and other neuroendocrine tumors. They can also be elevated in some non-cancerous conditions affecting the nervous system.
How is the NSE test used in cancer treatment?
The NSE test is used to monitor the effectiveness of cancer treatment and to detect recurrence of neuroendocrine tumors. Rising levels may indicate disease progression, while decreasing levels may suggest a positive response to treatment.
  1. 1
    Neuron-Specific Enolase as a Biomarker in NeuroblastomaSource
  2. 2
    Small Cell Lung Cancer Diagnosis and ManagementSource

Click any link to access the full source. PubMed Central (PMC) links provide free full-text access.

This information is for educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment.

Medical Disclaimer

This content is for general informational and educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the guidance of a qualified healthcare provider with any questions you have about a medical condition, and never disregard professional medical advice or delay seeking it because of something you read here.

If you think you may have a medical emergency, call your local emergency number or go to the nearest emergency department immediately.

Medically reviewed by WellAlly Editorial Team Last reviewed August 25, 2026. · Read our editorial policy