[The "neuron-specific enolase" tumor marker as a prognostic indicator in small cell bronchial carcinoma]

To assess the predictive value of the tumour marker NSE in respect of survival time prognosis in patients with small-cell bronchial carcinoma we performed serial measurements of the NSE concentration in 67 patients in whom the small-cell bronchial carcinoma had been newly diagnosed, before and during chemotherapy or radiotherapy. Pretherapeutic NSE determination proved an important predictive parameter with regard to survival time prognosis. In patients with an initial NSE concentration of over 60 ng/ml the survival time was significantly reduced (from 12.1 months to 8.4 months, p < 0.01). The pretherapeutic NSE concentrations are associated with the initial tumour stage. Serial NSE determinations reflect the course of the disease. A drop in NSE concentrations during the early phase of therapy may be important as a secondary prognosis indicator.