Stains - Neuron Specific Enolase (NSE)

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Stains

Neuron Specific Enolase (NSE)

Authors: Kara Hamilton, M.S., Nat Pernick, M.D., PathologyOutlines.com, Inc.

Editor: (see Reviewers page)

Revised: 22 September 2012, last major update - June 2009

General

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● Cytoplasmic enzyme expressed by neuroendocrine cells and tumors, including poorly differentiated neuroendocrine tumors, which usually are negative for other neuroendocrine markers

● Despite its name, is often not specific for neuroendocrine cells/tumors

● Enolases are widely distributed glycolytic enzymes that catalyze the interconversion of 2-phosphoglycerate and phosphophenolpyruvate

● NSE refers to the gamma-gamma and alpha-gamma isoenzymes preferentially found in neurons and neuroendocrine cells

Terminology

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Uses

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Interpretation

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Positive stains - normal

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● Neurons, neuroendocrine cells

Positive stains - disease

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● Neuroectodermal and neuroendocrine neoplasms

● Melanomas

Negative stains

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Micro images

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Pheochromocytoma

End of Stains > Neuron Specific Enolase (NSE)

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