Chromogranin A measurement in neuroendocrine tumors

Neuroendocrine tumors (NETs) are rare neoplasms characterized by a low proliferative index and, in some cases, a favorable prognosis. These tumors often overproduce and release biologically active substances that are responsible for severe syndromes. Tumor marker measurement provides the clinician with useful information for the management of NET patients. The substances released by overproducing tumors are currently used as biomarkers, but there is a need for sensitive markers also for the "biochemically silent" NETs. The most effective and reliable blood marker available today is chromogranin A (CgA). Because of its high sensitivity and specificity, this glycoprotein can be used for the diagnosis, prognosis and followup of NETs. Furthermore, CgA measurement can be used for monitoring those tumors not over-producing or releasing any hormones or biological amines. This paper is a synthetic review on the value of CgA in NET management and reports our experiences with CgA measurement in NET patients.