VASCULAR ENDOTHELIAL GROWTH FACTOR (VEGF) SERUM
A test that measures the levels of VEGF, a protein that promotes blood vessel growth. It is often elevated in cancers, diabetic retinopathy, and other conditions.
VASCULAR ENDOTHELIAL GROWTH FACTOR (VEGF) SERUM Test in Mangaluru Overview
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:
- Assess angiogenesis (blood vessel formation).
- Evaluate disease activity or prognosis in certain conditions.
- 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
- Sample Collection:
- Usually a blood sample (serum or plasma).
- Sometimes tissue samples are analyzed in research or specialized labs.
- Measurement:
- Performed using ELISA (enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay) or other immunoassays.
- Levels are reported in pg/mL (picograms per milliliter).
- 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.
No special preparations needed
- Vascular Endothelial Growth Factor
Test code
VEGF
Specimen vol. and vacutainer information
| Specimen | Vacutainer | Volume |
|---|---|---|
| Serum | Yellow Vacutainer | 2 ML |
Specimen stability information
Serum
Collection instructions
Age,Gender,Clinical history required
Specimen rejection criteria
Test run frequency
Every Day TIME - 09:00
Turn around time
40 Working Days
Performing locations
Department
- Local Send Out
CPT and Loinc codes
Package price
₹9000
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