Chromogranin A Test

The Chromogranin A (CgA) test is a blood test that measures the amount of chromogranin A in the blood. Chromogranin A is a protein that is released by neuroendocrine cells, which are cells that produce hormones and are found throughout the body. CgA levels can be elevated in people with neuroendocrine tumours, which are tumours that grow from neuroendocrine cells. The CgA test can be used to help diagnose neuroendocrine tumours, to monitor the progress of treatment for neuroendocrine tumours, and to detect recurrence of neuroendocrine tumours.

Here are some additional details about the Chromogranin A Test:

• The CgA test is typically ordered by a doctor if you have symptoms that may be caused by a neuroendocrine tumour, such as:
• Stomach pain
• Diarrhoea
• Weight loss
• Flushing
• Sweating
• Wheezing
• Headaches
• Palpitations
• The CgA test may also be ordered if you have a family history of neuroendocrine tumours.
• The CgA test is not a perfect test. In some cases, CgA levels may be elevated in people who do not have neuroendocrine tumours. This can happen with certain medications, such as proton pump inhibitors (PPIs), or with certain medical conditions, such as kidney disease.
• If your CgA test results are abnormal, your doctor may order additional tests to confirm the diagnosis of a neuroendocrine tumour. These tests may include:
• Imaging tests, such as a CT scan, MRI, or PET scan
• Biopsy, which is a procedure to remove a small piece of tissue from the tumour for testing

If you have any questions about the Chromogranin A Test, please talk to your doctor.

The CgA test is a simple blood test that is typically done in a doctor's office or a laboratory. The test is not painful and only takes a few minutes to complete. The blood sample is collected from a vein in the arm and is then sent to a laboratory for testing.

The results of the CgA test are typically available within 24–48 hours. If the results are abnormal, your doctor may order additional tests to confirm the diagnosis of a neuroendocrine tumour.