Vascular Endothelial Growth Factor (vegf) Serum

What is VEGF?

• VEGF (Vascular Endothelial Growth Factor) is a protein produced by cells that stimulates the formation of new blood vessels (angiogenesis).
• It plays a crucial role in normal processes like wound healing and embryonic development.
• However, abnormal VEGF levels are linked to diseases, especially cancer and vascular disorders.

Purpose of the VEGF Test

The VEGF test measures the level of VEGF protein in the blood or tissue to:

1. Assess angiogenesis (blood vessel formation).
2. Evaluate disease activity or prognosis in certain conditions.
3. Monitor response to therapy, especially anti-angiogenic treatments.

Clinical Indications

VEGF testing may be considered in:

Condition	Reason for Testing VEGF
Cancer (solid tumors, leukemia, lymphoma)	High VEGF promotes tumor growth and metastasis; can guide therapy
Eye diseases (e.g., diabetic retinopathy, age-related macular degeneration)	VEGF causes abnormal blood vessel growth in retina; anti-VEGF therapy is monitored
Chronic inflammatory or autoimmune diseases (e.g., rheumatoid arthritis)	VEGF may indicate disease activity or joint damage
Wound healing disorders	Low VEGF may impair tissue repair
Vascular disorders (e.g., pulmonary hypertension)	VEGF plays a role in abnormal blood vessel formation

How the Test is Performed

1. Sample Collection:
   • Usually a blood sample (serum or plasma).
   • Sometimes tissue samples are analyzed in research or specialized labs.
2. Measurement:
   • Performed using ELISA (enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay) or other immunoassays.
   • Levels are reported in pg/mL (picograms per milliliter).
3. Preparation:
   • Typically, no fasting required.
   • Some medications or recent treatments may influence results, so physicians may advise accordingly.

Interpretation of VEGF Levels

VEGF Level	Possible Implication
High VEGF	Tumor angiogenesis, active cancer, diabetic retinopathy, rheumatoid arthritis, chronic inflammation
Low VEGF	Impaired wound healing, tissue ischemia, certain vascular diseases

Why the Test is Ordered

• To assess tumor angiogenesis and help guide cancer treatment.
• To monitor effectiveness of anti-VEGF therapy (e.g., in eye diseases or cancer).
• To evaluate disease activity in chronic inflammatory or vascular conditions.
• To investigate abnormal blood vessel formation in certain disorders.

Key Points

• VEGF is essential for blood vessel formation but can be harmful if overexpressed.
• High VEGF is often a marker of disease progression, especially in cancers.