L. Giovanella, L. Ceriani, S. La Rosa1, S. Garancini
Laboratory of Endocrinology and Oncology
University Hospital “Ospedale di Circolo e Fondazione Macchi” – Varese (Italy)
1Department of Biological and Clinical Sciences – School of Medicine, University of Insubria – Varese (Italy)
Human Chromogranin-A (CgA) is a 48-kDa protein, encompassing 439 amino acids. It belong to the granine family and it’s largely distributed in secretory granules of endocrine and neuroendocrine cells [1]. CgA is an important marker of neuroendocrine differentiation: its circulating levels are significantly elevated in neuroendocrine tumours (NETs) reflecting the secretory activity of the tumour [2]. CgA assessment in NETs with eutopic secretory activity may be more convenient than urinary detection of 5-hydroxyindolacetic acid (5-HIAA), catecholamines and metabolites [3]. Additionally, CgA measurement may be useful also for the diagnosis and follow up of patients without demonstrated hormonal secretion [4]. |
