Diagnostic Tests | Comments |
Biochemical Studies |
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Serum chromogranin-A | The sensitivity and specificity depends on the cutoff value. In general sensitivity ranges from 50% - 100%. |
Serum enolase* |
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Human chorionic gonadotropin* |
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Pancreatic polypeptide* |
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Insulin** |
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Gastrin** |
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Glucagon** |
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VIP** |
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Urinary excretion of 5-hydroxyindoleacetic acid (5-HIAA) | It has a sensitivity of over 90% and specificity of 90% for the carcinoid syndrome. |
Radiologic Studies |
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Computed tomography (CT) scan | CT scans are non-invasive and readily available. Sensitivity for primary tumor ranges from 14% - 77%. Higher for metastatic lesion. |
Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) | MRI sensitivity for primary tumor is between 74% - 100%. It is the most sensitive method for detection of liver metastases. |
Endoscopic ultrasonography | Useful for small pancreatic lesions and does not require contrast administration. It is operator dependent. |
Somatostatin receptor scintigraphy | Most common technique for detecting gastropancreatic neuroendocrine tumours, with sensitivity of 67% - 100%. |
Positron emissions tomography (PET) scan |
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Others |
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Arterial secretagogue injection | An invasive two-stage procedure. Sensitivity of 70% - 95%. |